Lexington Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Lexington Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 650 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 54 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01126 |
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 LEXINGTON, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lexington Reservoir Dam?
Lexington Reservoir 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 Lexington Reservoir Dam?
Lexington Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF LEXINGTON, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lexington Reservoir Dam built?
Lexington Reservoir Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Lexington Reservoir Dam?
Lexington Reservoir 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 Lexington Reservoir Dam?
Lexington Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Lexington Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Lexington Reservoir Dam was last inspected on September 28, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.