Echo Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Echo Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 41 ft (taller than 93% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 150 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 122 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1898 (128 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00446 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MILFORD WATER COMPANY
Private
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Echo Lake Dam?
Echo Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Echo Lake Dam?
Echo Lake Dam is owned by MILFORD WATER COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Echo Lake Dam built?
Echo Lake Dam was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 Echo Lake Dam?
Echo Lake 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 Echo Lake Dam?
Echo Lake Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Echo Lake Dam last inspected?
Echo Lake Dam was last inspected on April 5, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.