Lake Maspenock Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Maspenock Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1901 and is 125 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 18 ft (taller than 63.9% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 238 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1901 (125 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00627 |
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
TOWN OF HOPKINTON, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Maspenock Dam?
Lake Maspenock Dam 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 Lake Maspenock Dam?
Lake Maspenock Dam is owned by TOWN OF HOPKINTON, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Maspenock Dam built?
Lake Maspenock Dam was completed in 1901, making it 125 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 Maspenock Dam?
Lake Maspenock 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 Maspenock Dam?
Lake Maspenock Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Maspenock Dam last inspected?
Lake Maspenock Dam was last inspected on July 6, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.