Plunkett Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Plunkett Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1875 and is 151 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 | 27 ft (taller than 82.9% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 570 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 73 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1875 (151 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00226 |
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
TOWN OF HINSDALE, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 51 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Plunkett Reservoir Dam?
Plunkett Reservoir 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 Plunkett Reservoir Dam?
Plunkett Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF HINSDALE, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Plunkett Reservoir Dam built?
Plunkett Reservoir Dam was completed in 1875, making it 151 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 Plunkett Reservoir Dam?
Plunkett Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Plunkett Reservoir Dam?
Plunkett Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Plunkett Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Plunkett Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 12, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.