Granite Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Granite Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1924 and is 102 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 69.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 620 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 197 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1924 (102 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00105 |
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
TOWN OF CHARLTON, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Old Shepherd Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 7 ftBuffumville Dam
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High Hazard 15 ftLower Gore Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 20 ftPutnam Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 12 ftGore Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 12 ftBuffumville Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 17 ftNew Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 18 ftWallis Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Granite Lake Dam?
Granite Lake 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 Granite Lake Dam?
Granite Lake Dam is owned by TOWN OF CHARLTON, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Granite Lake Dam built?
Granite Lake Dam was completed in 1924, making it 102 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 Granite Lake Dam?
Granite Lake 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 Granite Lake Dam?
Granite Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Granite Lake Dam last inspected?
Granite Lake Dam was last inspected on November 7, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.