New Charles River Dam
Key Takeaway
New Charles River Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 36 ft (taller than 91% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 7.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 705 acres |
| Drainage Area | 313 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1978 (48 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01092 |
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
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Significant Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of New Charles River Dam?
New Charles River 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 Charles River Dam?
New Charles River Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was New Charles River Dam built?
New Charles River Dam was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Charles River Dam?
New Charles River Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Navigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is New Charles River Dam?
New Charles River Dam has a dam height of 36 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 Charles River Dam last inspected?
New Charles River Dam was last inspected on March 1, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.