Dykes Meadow Dam
Key Takeaway
Dykes Meadow Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 52 ft (taller than 96.2% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 525 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 574 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 108 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1981 (45 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00156 |
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
CITY OF GLOUCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dykes Meadow Dam?
Dykes Meadow 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 Dykes Meadow Dam?
Dykes Meadow Dam is owned by CITY OF GLOUCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dykes Meadow Dam built?
Dykes Meadow Dam was completed in 1981, making it 45 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 Dykes Meadow Dam?
Dykes Meadow Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Dykes Meadow Dam?
Dykes Meadow Dam has a dam height of 52 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 Dykes Meadow Dam last inspected?
Dykes Meadow Dam was last inspected on April 23, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.