Holmes Playground Dam
Key Takeaway
Holmes Playground Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 16 ft (taller than 56.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 275 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 46 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00908 |
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 PLYMOUTH, PARK AND RECREATION
Local Government
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Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Holmes Playground Dam?
Holmes Playground 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 Holmes Playground Dam?
Holmes Playground Dam is owned by TOWN OF PLYMOUTH, PARK AND RECREATION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Holmes Playground Dam built?
Holmes Playground Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Holmes Playground Dam?
Holmes Playground 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 Holmes Playground Dam?
Holmes Playground Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Holmes Playground Dam last inspected?
Holmes Playground Dam was last inspected on December 7, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.