Lake Ellis Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Ellis Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1852 and is 174 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 39.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 210 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 310 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 66 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1852 (174 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00005 |
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 ATHOL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Cresticon Upper
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 12 ftCresticon Lower
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 6 ftReservoir #2 Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 16 ftCrescent Street
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 28 ftNewton Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 30 ftDavenport Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 7 ftSportsmans Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 12 ftWard Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 4 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis 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 Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis Dam is owned by TOWN OF ATHOL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Ellis Dam built?
Lake Ellis Dam was completed in 1852, making it 174 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 Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis 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 Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Ellis Dam last inspected?
Lake Ellis Dam was last inspected on July 26, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.