Searles Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Searles Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1979 and is 47 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 8 ft (taller than 6.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 130 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 26 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1979 (47 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01284 |
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 METHUEN, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Stevens Pond Outlet Dam
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High Hazard 19 ftMethuen Falls
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Significant Hazard 23 ftGreat Stone
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Low Hazard 38 ftCochichewick River Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftOsgood Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 28 ftCrystal Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftLake Cochichewick Outlet Dam
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High Hazard 13 ftForest Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Searles Pond Dam?
Searles 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 Searles Pond Dam?
Searles Pond Dam is owned by CITY OF METHUEN, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Searles Pond Dam built?
Searles Pond Dam was completed in 1979, making it 47 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 Searles Pond Dam?
Searles Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Searles Pond Dam?
Searles Pond Dam has a dam height of 8 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 Searles Pond Dam last inspected?
Searles Pond Dam was last inspected on April 14, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.