Houghton Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Houghton Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 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 | 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 160 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 132 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1898 (128 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00444 |
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 Holliston, Board of Selectmen
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 12 ftWeston's Dam
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Houghton Pond Dam?
Houghton Pond 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 Houghton Pond Dam?
Houghton Pond Dam is owned by Town of Holliston, Board of Selectmen (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Houghton Pond Dam built?
Houghton Pond Dam was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 Houghton Pond Dam?
Houghton Pond 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 Houghton Pond Dam?
Houghton Pond Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Houghton Pond Dam last inspected?
Houghton Pond Dam was last inspected on December 20, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.