Ludlow Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Ludlow Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1877 and is 149 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 29 ft (taller than 85.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 315 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 370 acres |
| Drainage Area | 21 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1877 (149 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00547 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ludlow Reservoir Dam?
Ludlow Reservoir Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Ludlow Reservoir Dam?
Ludlow Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ludlow Reservoir Dam built?
Ludlow Reservoir Dam was completed in 1877, making it 149 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 Ludlow Reservoir Dam?
Ludlow Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ludlow Reservoir Dam?
Ludlow Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Ludlow Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Ludlow Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 8, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.