Indian Orchard
Key Takeaway
Indian Orchard is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1846 and is 180 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 30 ft (taller than 86.6% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 452 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 74 acres |
| Drainage Area | 689 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 71,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1846 (180 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00722 |
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
Not Listed
Nearby Dams
Harris Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftPutts Bridge
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 22 ftBreckwood Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 23 ftMill Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 17 ftChicopee Reservoir Dam
Hampden, MA
High Hazard 47 ftWade Lake Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftChicopee
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 9 ftLudlow Reservoir Dam
Hampden, MA
High Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Indian Orchard?
Indian Orchard 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 Indian Orchard?
Indian Orchard is owned by information not available (Not Listed). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Indian Orchard built?
Indian Orchard was completed in 1846, making it 180 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 Indian Orchard?
Indian Orchard serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Indian Orchard?
Indian Orchard has a dam height of 30 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 Indian Orchard last inspected?
Indian Orchard was last inspected on September 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.