Palmer Brook Dam
Key Takeaway
Palmer Brook Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 34 ft (taller than 90% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 290 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 134 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00205 |
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
PALMER BROOK CORPORATION
Private
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High Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Palmer Brook Dam?
Palmer Brook 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 Palmer Brook Dam?
Palmer Brook Dam is owned by PALMER BROOK CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Palmer Brook Dam built?
Palmer Brook Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Palmer Brook Dam?
Palmer Brook 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 Palmer Brook Dam?
Palmer Brook Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Palmer Brook Dam last inspected?
Palmer Brook Dam was last inspected on August 22, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.