Mountain Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Mountain Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 32 ft (taller than 88.6% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 75 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00530 |
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 CHICOPEE, OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Holyoke Dam
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Significant Hazard 30 ftHillside Beach Dam
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High Hazard 21 ftChicopee
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Low Hazard 9 ftChicopee Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 47 ftQueensville Dam
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Significant Hazard 22 ftDwight
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Significant Hazard 24 ftLeaping Well Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 29 ftLower Bemis Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mountain Lake Dam?
Mountain Lake 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 Mountain Lake Dam?
Mountain Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF CHICOPEE, OFFICE OF THE MAYOR (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mountain Lake Dam built?
Mountain Lake Dam was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Mountain Lake Dam?
Mountain Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mountain Lake Dam?
Mountain Lake Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Mountain Lake Dam last inspected?
Mountain Lake Dam was last inspected on July 20, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.