Sawdy Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Sawdy Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 850 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 370 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | MA02491 |
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 FALL RIVER, DEPT. OF COMMUNITY UTILITIES
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sawdy Pond Dam?
Sawdy Pond 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 Sawdy Pond Dam?
Sawdy Pond Dam is owned by CITY OF FALL RIVER, DEPT. OF COMMUNITY UTILITIES (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sawdy Pond Dam built?
Sawdy Pond Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Sawdy Pond Dam?
Sawdy Pond 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 Sawdy Pond Dam?
Sawdy Pond Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Sawdy Pond Dam last inspected?
Sawdy Pond Dam was last inspected on December 8, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.