Schencks Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Schencks Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 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 | 22 ft (taller than 73.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 167 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 66 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00784 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
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Significant Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Schencks Pond Dam?
Schencks Pond 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 Schencks Pond Dam?
Schencks Pond Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Schencks Pond Dam built?
Schencks Pond Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Schencks Pond Dam?
Schencks Pond 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 Schencks Pond Dam?
Schencks Pond Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Schencks Pond Dam last inspected?
Schencks Pond Dam was last inspected on September 9, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.