Red Dam
Key Takeaway
Red Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 270 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 220 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00170 |
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
TOWN OF WRENTHAM, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WOKS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 9 ftDelcarte Open Space Dam No. 3
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Low Hazard 9 ftCity Mills Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftRabbitt Hill Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Red Dam?
Red 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 Red Dam?
Red Dam is owned by TOWN OF WRENTHAM, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WOKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Red Dam built?
Red Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Red Dam?
Red 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 Red Dam?
Red Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Red Dam last inspected?
Red Dam was last inspected on November 20, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.