Onota Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Onota Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1995 and is 31 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 | 18 ft (taller than 63.9% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 240 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 6.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 660 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1995 (31 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00016 |
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 PITTSFIELD, OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 18 ftRichmond Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFarnham Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 105 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Onota Lake Dam?
Onota 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 Onota Lake Dam?
Onota Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF PITTSFIELD, OFFICE OF THE MAYOR (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Onota Lake Dam built?
Onota Lake Dam was completed in 1995, making it 31 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 Onota Lake Dam?
Onota Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Onota Lake Dam?
Onota Lake Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Onota Lake Dam last inspected?
Onota Lake Dam was last inspected on June 7, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.