Lake Boon Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Boon Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1847 and is 179 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 7 ft (taller than 2.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 477 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 173 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1847 (179 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00137 |
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 STOW, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 13 ftDelaney Complex
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Significant Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Boon Dam?
Lake Boon 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 Lake Boon Dam?
Lake Boon Dam is owned by TOWN OF STOW, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Boon Dam built?
Lake Boon Dam was completed in 1847, making it 179 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 Boon Dam?
Lake Boon 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 Boon Dam?
Lake Boon 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 Boon Dam last inspected?
Lake Boon Dam was last inspected on September 18, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.