Hop Brook Dam
Key Takeaway
Hop Brook Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 23 ft (taller than 76.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 410 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00998 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 15 ftRawson Hill Brook Dam
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Low Hazard 19 ftRocky Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hop Brook Dam?
Hop Brook 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 Hop Brook Dam?
Hop Brook Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hop Brook Dam built?
Hop Brook Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Hop Brook Dam?
Hop Brook Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Hop Brook Dam?
Hop Brook Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Hop Brook Dam last inspected?
Hop Brook Dam was last inspected on June 28, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.