Cresticon Lower
Key Takeaway
Cresticon Lower is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 6 ft (taller than 1.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 135 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 201 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01684 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
L.P. Athol Corporation
Private
Nearby Dams
Cresticon Upper
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 12 ftCrescent Street
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 28 ftSportsmans Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 12 ftLake Ellis Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 13 ftPackard Pond Dam
Franklin, MA
Significant Hazard 25 ftReservoir #2 Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 16 ftWard Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 4 ftTully Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 59 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cresticon Lower?
Cresticon Lower is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cresticon Lower?
Cresticon Lower is owned by L.P. Athol Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cresticon Lower built?
Cresticon Lower was completed in 1948, making it 78 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Cresticon Lower?
Cresticon Lower serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cresticon Lower?
Cresticon Lower has a dam height of 6 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Cresticon Lower last inspected?
Cresticon Lower was last inspected on June 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.