Fernwood Lake South Dike
Key Takeaway
Fernwood Lake South Dike is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1877 and is 149 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 8 ft (taller than 6.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 325 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 317 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 225 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 28 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1877 (149 years old) |
| NID ID | MA02269 |
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
Nearby Dams
Fernwood Lake West Dam
Essex, MA
High Hazard 11 ftFernwood Lake East Dam
Essex, MA
High Hazard 5 ftFernwood Lake North Dam
Essex, MA
High Hazard 16 ftWallace Pond Dam
Essex, MA
High Hazard 22 ftUpper Banjo Pond Dam
Essex, MA
High Hazard 17 ftLily Pond Outlet Dam
Essex, MA
Significant Hazard 8 ftBuswell Pond Dam
Essex, MA
Significant Hazard 4 ftDykes Meadow Dam
Essex, MA
Significant Hazard 52 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fernwood Lake South Dike?
Fernwood Lake South Dike 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 Fernwood Lake South Dike?
Fernwood Lake South Dike 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 Fernwood Lake South Dike built?
Fernwood Lake South Dike was completed in 1877, making it 149 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 Fernwood Lake South Dike?
Fernwood Lake South Dike 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 Fernwood Lake South Dike?
Fernwood Lake South Dike has a dam height of 8 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 Fernwood Lake South Dike last inspected?
Fernwood Lake South Dike was last inspected on March 22, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.