Sandwash Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Sandwash Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 41 ft (taller than 93% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,550 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 804 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 65 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1936 (90 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00316 |
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
Ashley Lake Reservoir
Berkshire, MA
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High Hazard 39 ftSchoolhouse Lake Dam
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High Hazard 63 ftWashington Mountain Lake Dam
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High Hazard 28 ftFarnham Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 105 ftUpper Sackett Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 76 ftFelton Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sandwash Reservoir Dam?
Sandwash 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 Sandwash Reservoir Dam?
Sandwash Reservoir 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 Sandwash Reservoir Dam built?
Sandwash Reservoir Dam was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 Sandwash Reservoir Dam?
Sandwash Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sandwash Reservoir Dam?
Sandwash Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Sandwash Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Sandwash Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 9, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.