Curtis Ponds Dam
Key Takeaway
Curtis Ponds Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1837 and is 189 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 45.2% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 420 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 512 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 220 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 33 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1837 (189 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00140 |
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
NEW ENGLAND POWER CO.
Private
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Significant Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Curtis Ponds Dam?
Curtis Ponds Dam 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 Curtis Ponds Dam?
Curtis Ponds Dam is owned by NEW ENGLAND POWER CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Curtis Ponds Dam built?
Curtis Ponds Dam was completed in 1837, making it 189 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 Curtis Ponds Dam?
Curtis Ponds Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Curtis Ponds Dam?
Curtis Ponds Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Curtis Ponds Dam last inspected?
Curtis Ponds Dam was last inspected on September 29, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.