Gale Brothers Dam

Franklin, Massachusetts· Earth· 9 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Gale Brothers Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 9 ft (taller than 12.4% in MA)
Dam Length70 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage2 acre-ft
Normal Storage1 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
NID IDMA02333

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: April 25, 2015
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

DECEASED - STEPHEN THOMPSON

Private

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Cresticon Lower

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Gale Brothers Dam?

Gale Brothers 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 Gale Brothers Dam?

Gale Brothers Dam is owned by DECEASED - STEPHEN THOMPSON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Gale Brothers Dam?

Gale Brothers 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 Gale Brothers Dam?

Gale Brothers Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Gale Brothers Dam last inspected?

Gale Brothers Dam was last inspected on April 25, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.