Metropolitan Circular Dam
Key Takeaway
Metropolitan Circular Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 82.9% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 80 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 18 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 211 sq mi |
| NID ID | MA02589 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
Metro Circ Dam, Hemlock Gorge Spillway
Middlesex, MA
Significant Hazard 15 ftSilk Mill Dam
Middlesex, MA
Low Hazard 20 ftWellesley Avenue Dam
Norfolk, MA
Low Hazard 11 ftCordingly Dam
Middlesex, MA
Significant Hazard 11 ftRosemary Lake Dam
Norfolk, MA
High Hazard 12 ftNewton Lower Falls Dam
Middlesex, MA
Significant Hazard 9 ftBulloughs Pond Dam
Middlesex, MA
Significant Hazard 9 ftBleachery Dam
Middlesex, MA
Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Metropolitan Circular Dam?
Metropolitan Circular 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 Metropolitan Circular Dam?
Metropolitan Circular Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Metropolitan Circular Dam?
Metropolitan Circular Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Metropolitan Circular Dam?
Metropolitan Circular Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Metropolitan Circular Dam last inspected?
Metropolitan Circular Dam was last inspected on May 20, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.