Somerset Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Somerset Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 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 | 48 ft (taller than 95% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 6,700 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00792 |
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
TOWN OF SOMERSET, WATER DEPARTMENT
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Somerset Reservoir Dam?
Somerset Reservoir 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 Somerset Reservoir Dam?
Somerset Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF SOMERSET, WATER DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Somerset Reservoir Dam built?
Somerset Reservoir Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Somerset Reservoir Dam?
Somerset Reservoir 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 Somerset Reservoir Dam?
Somerset Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Somerset Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Somerset Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 7, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.