Lake Attitash Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Attitash Dam is classified as low hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 7 ft (taller than 2.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 60 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 369 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01212 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF AMESBURY, DEPT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Attitash Dam?
Lake Attitash Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Attitash Dam?
Lake Attitash Dam is owned by CITY OF AMESBURY, DEPT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Attitash Dam built?
Lake Attitash Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Lake Attitash Dam?
Lake Attitash 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 Lake Attitash Dam?
Lake Attitash Dam has a dam height of 7 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 Lake Attitash Dam last inspected?
Lake Attitash Dam was last inspected on October 5, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.