Newton Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Newton Reservoir Dam is classified as low hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1903 and is 123 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 86.6% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 430 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 230 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 177 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1903 (123 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00011 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TOWN OF ATHOL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Newton Reservoir Dam?
Newton Reservoir Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Newton Reservoir Dam?
Newton Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF ATHOL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Newton Reservoir Dam built?
Newton Reservoir Dam was completed in 1903, making it 123 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 Newton Reservoir Dam?
Newton Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Newton Reservoir Dam?
Newton Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Newton Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Newton Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 25, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.