Silver Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Silver Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1878 and is 148 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 48.8% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 150 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1878 (148 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00066 |
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
SILVER LAKE CORPORATION
Private
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Hampden, MA
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High Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Silver Lake Dam?
Silver Lake 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 Silver Lake Dam?
Silver Lake Dam is owned by SILVER LAKE CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Silver Lake Dam built?
Silver Lake Dam was completed in 1878, making it 148 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 Silver Lake Dam?
Silver Lake 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 Silver Lake Dam?
Silver Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Silver Lake Dam last inspected?
Silver Lake Dam was last inspected on December 2, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.