First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 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 | 22 ft (taller than 73.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 500 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00478 |
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 SCITUATE, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WATER DIVISION
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam?
First Herring Brook Reservoir 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 First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam?
First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF SCITUATE, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WATER DIVISION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam built?
First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam?
First Herring Brook Reservoir 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 First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam?
First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 22 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 First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam last inspected?
First Herring Brook Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 8, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.