New Bedford Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
New Bedford Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1867 and is 159 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 650 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 218 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1867 (159 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01014 |
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
CITY OF NEW BEDFORD
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of New Bedford Reservoir Dam?
New Bedford 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 New Bedford Reservoir Dam?
New Bedford Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF NEW BEDFORD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was New Bedford Reservoir Dam built?
New Bedford Reservoir Dam was completed in 1867, making it 159 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 New Bedford Reservoir Dam?
New Bedford Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is New Bedford Reservoir Dam?
New Bedford 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 New Bedford Reservoir Dam last inspected?
New Bedford Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 25, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.