Shepard Street Dam
Key Takeaway
Shepard Street Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 11 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | MA03104 |
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 CANTON, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Shepard Street Dam?
Shepard Street 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 Shepard Street Dam?
Shepard Street Dam is owned by TOWN OF CANTON, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shepard Street Dam built?
Shepard Street Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Shepard Street Dam?
Shepard Street Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Shepard Street Dam?
Shepard Street 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 Shepard Street Dam last inspected?
Shepard Street Dam was last inspected on January 12, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.