Lake Rico Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Rico Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 26 ft (taller than 81.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 250 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| NID ID | MA03091 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Rico Dam?
Lake Rico 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 Rico Dam?
Lake Rico Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Rico Dam built?
Lake Rico Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Rico Dam?
Lake Rico Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Rico Dam?
Lake Rico Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Rico Dam last inspected?
Lake Rico Dam was last inspected on April 29, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.