Lower Shawme Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Shawme Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1654 and is 372 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 120 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 63 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 32 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 26 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1654 (372 years old) |
| NID ID | MA02470 |
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 SANDWICH, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Upper Shawme Lake Dam
Barnstable, MA
Significant Hazard 12 ftUpper Reservoir Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftMill Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftNye Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftMashpee River (Rte 130) Dam
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Significant Hazard 12 ftSantuit Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftJohns Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftWhite Island Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Shawme Lake Dam?
Lower Shawme Lake 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 Shawme Lake Dam?
Lower Shawme Lake Dam is owned by TOWN OF SANDWICH, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Shawme Lake Dam built?
Lower Shawme Lake Dam was completed in 1654, making it 372 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 Shawme Lake Dam?
Lower Shawme Lake 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 Shawme Lake Dam?
Lower Shawme Lake Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Shawme Lake Dam last inspected?
Lower Shawme Lake Dam was last inspected on May 19, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.