North Silver Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
North Silver Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 76 ft (taller than 98.2% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 179 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00307 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
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High Hazard 94 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Silver Lake Dam?
North Silver 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 North Silver Lake Dam?
North Silver Lake 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 North Silver Lake Dam built?
North Silver Lake Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 North Silver Lake Dam?
North Silver Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is North Silver Lake Dam?
North Silver Lake Dam has a dam height of 76 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 North Silver Lake Dam last inspected?
North Silver Lake Dam was last inspected on May 11, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.