Mcavoy Pond Dam

TRIBUTARY OF SAWMILL RIVER· Franklin, Massachusetts· Built 1956· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Mcavoy Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 32.1% in MA)
Dam Length150 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage175 acre-ft
Normal Storage75 acre-ft
Surface Area33 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Year Completed1956 (70 years old)
NID IDMA00515

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: May 15, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

TROUSDALE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL TRUST

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mcavoy Pond Dam?

Mcavoy 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 Mcavoy Pond Dam?

Mcavoy Pond Dam is owned by TROUSDALE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL TRUST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Mcavoy Pond Dam built?

Mcavoy Pond Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Mcavoy Pond Dam?

Mcavoy 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 Mcavoy Pond Dam?

Mcavoy Pond Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Mcavoy Pond Dam last inspected?

Mcavoy Pond Dam was last inspected on May 15, 2018. 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.