Lynn Reservoir Dam

SAUGUS RIVER OFFSTREAM· Essex, Massachusetts· Built 1872· Earth· 10 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lynn Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1872 and is 154 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA)
Dam Length1,920 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage74 acre-ft
Normal Storage63 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1872 (154 years old)
NID IDMA01285

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: December 13, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

CITY OF LYNN, LYNN WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lynn Reservoir Dam?

Lynn 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 Lynn Reservoir Dam?

Lynn Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF LYNN, LYNN WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lynn Reservoir Dam built?

Lynn Reservoir Dam was completed in 1872, making it 154 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 Lynn Reservoir Dam?

Lynn 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 Lynn Reservoir Dam?

Lynn Reservoir 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 Lynn Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Lynn Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 13, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.