Smelt Brook Dam
Key Takeaway
Smelt Brook Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1975 and is 51 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 15 ft (taller than 48.8% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 240 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 540 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 34 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1975 (51 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01292 |
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
WEYMOUTH/ BRAINTREE REGIONAL RECREATION - CONSERVATION DISTRICT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 15 ftIron Hill Dam
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High Hazard 26 ftGreat Pond Upper Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 18 ftGreat Pond Dam
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High Hazard 10 ftLake Holbrook Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Smelt Brook Dam?
Smelt Brook 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 Smelt Brook Dam?
Smelt Brook Dam is owned by WEYMOUTH/ BRAINTREE REGIONAL RECREATION - CONSERVATION DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smelt Brook Dam built?
Smelt Brook Dam was completed in 1975, making it 51 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 Smelt Brook Dam?
Smelt Brook 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 Smelt Brook Dam?
Smelt Brook 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 Smelt Brook Dam last inspected?
Smelt Brook Dam was last inspected on June 15, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.