Lake Quannapowitt Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Quannapowitt Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 6 ft (taller than 1.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 7 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01145 |
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 WAKEFIELD, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Quannapowitt Dam?
Lake Quannapowitt 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 Quannapowitt Dam?
Lake Quannapowitt Dam is owned by TOWN OF WAKEFIELD, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Quannapowitt Dam built?
Lake Quannapowitt Dam was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Quannapowitt Dam?
Lake Quannapowitt 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 Quannapowitt Dam?
Lake Quannapowitt Dam has a dam height of 6 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 Quannapowitt Dam last inspected?
Lake Quannapowitt Dam was last inspected on December 1, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.