Porter Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Porter Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1919 and is 107 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 77.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 180 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1919 (107 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00568 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, BUILDINGS, AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Porter Lake Dam?
Porter Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Porter Lake Dam?
Porter Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, BUILDINGS, AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Porter Lake Dam built?
Porter Lake Dam was completed in 1919, making it 107 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 Porter Lake Dam?
Porter Lake 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 Porter Lake Dam?
Porter Lake Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Porter Lake Dam last inspected?
Porter Lake Dam was last inspected on June 18, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.