Lake Watatic Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Watatic Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 69.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 820 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 150 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00004 |
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 ASHBURNHAM, WATER DEPARTMENT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 12 ftWinnekeag Lake Dam
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High Hazard 21 ftStodge Meadow Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 15 ftMill Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 20 ftIsland Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Watatic Dam?
Lake Watatic 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 Watatic Dam?
Lake Watatic Dam is owned by TOWN OF ASHBURNHAM, WATER DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Watatic Dam built?
Lake Watatic Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Watatic Dam?
Lake Watatic 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 Watatic Dam?
Lake Watatic Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Watatic Dam last inspected?
Lake Watatic Dam was last inspected on October 27, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.