Cushing Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Cushing Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.1% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 31 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 19 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA03209 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 9 ftIsland Grove Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 12 ftHarding Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftStudleys Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 15 ftUpper Porter Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cushing Pond Dam?
Cushing Pond 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 Cushing Pond Dam?
Cushing Pond Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cushing Pond Dam built?
Cushing Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Cushing Pond Dam?
Cushing Pond 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 Cushing Pond Dam?
Cushing Pond Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Cushing Pond Dam last inspected?
Cushing Pond Dam was last inspected on August 3, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.