Lower Bemis Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Bemis Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1862 and is 164 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 89.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 290 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 43 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1862 (164 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00531 |
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
CITY OF CHICOPEE, PARKS DEPARTMENT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Upper Bemis Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 18 ftDwight
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 24 ftChicopee
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 9 ftUpper Van Horn Reservoir Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 32 ftLower Van Horn Reservoir Dam
Hampden, MA
High Hazard 41 ftChicopee Reservoir Dam
Hampden, MA
High Hazard 47 ftMountain Lake Dam
Hampden, MA
High Hazard 32 ftSpringfield Country Club Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Bemis Pond Dam?
Lower Bemis Pond 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 Lower Bemis Pond Dam?
Lower Bemis Pond Dam is owned by CITY OF CHICOPEE, PARKS DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Bemis Pond Dam built?
Lower Bemis Pond Dam was completed in 1862, making it 164 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 Lower Bemis Pond Dam?
Lower Bemis Pond 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 Lower Bemis Pond Dam?
Lower Bemis Pond Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Lower Bemis Pond Dam last inspected?
Lower Bemis Pond Dam was last inspected on May 1, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.