Factory Hollow Dam
Key Takeaway
Factory Hollow Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1895 and is 131 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 31 ft (taller than 88% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 110 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 94 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1895 (131 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00063 |
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
TOWN OF AMHERST, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Factory Hollow Dam?
Factory Hollow 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 Factory Hollow Dam?
Factory Hollow Dam is owned by TOWN OF AMHERST, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Factory Hollow Dam built?
Factory Hollow Dam was completed in 1895, making it 131 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 Factory Hollow Dam?
Factory Hollow 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 Factory Hollow Dam?
Factory Hollow Dam has a dam height of 31 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 Factory Hollow Dam last inspected?
Factory Hollow Dam was last inspected on July 28, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.