Middle Reservoir Dike

TRIBUTARY OF MYSTIC RIVER· Middlesex, Massachusetts· Built 1891· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Middle Reservoir Dike is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1891 and is 135 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 48.8% in MA)
Dam Length340 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage2.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.8K acre-ft
Surface Area52 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1891 (135 years old)
NID IDMA01086

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: August 6, 2014
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

TOWN OF WINCHESTER, WATER DEPARTMENT

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Middle Reservoir Dike?

Middle Reservoir Dike 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 Middle Reservoir Dike?

Middle Reservoir Dike is owned by TOWN OF WINCHESTER, WATER DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Middle Reservoir Dike built?

Middle Reservoir Dike was completed in 1891, making it 135 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 Middle Reservoir Dike?

Middle Reservoir Dike 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 Middle Reservoir Dike?

Middle Reservoir Dike has a dam height of 15 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 Middle Reservoir Dike last inspected?

Middle Reservoir Dike was last inspected on August 6, 2014. 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.