Jacobs Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Jacobs Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1730 and is 296 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 650 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 55 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1730 (296 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00365 |
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 NORWELL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 7 ftAccord Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFulling Mill Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftAaron River Dam
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High Hazard 30 ftWoodpecker Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftCurtis Crossing Dam
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Low Hazard 12 ftForge Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Jacobs Pond Dam?
Jacobs Pond 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 Jacobs Pond Dam?
Jacobs Pond Dam is owned by TOWN OF NORWELL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Jacobs Pond Dam built?
Jacobs Pond Dam was completed in 1730, making it 296 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 Jacobs Pond Dam?
Jacobs 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 Jacobs Pond Dam?
Jacobs Pond Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Jacobs Pond Dam last inspected?
Jacobs Pond Dam was last inspected on July 13, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.