Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam
Key Takeaway
Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 89.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,130 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 610 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 491 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00693 |
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 SOUTHBRIDGE
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Southbridge Reservoir #4 Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 18 ftSouthbridge Reservoir #3 Dam
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Significant Hazard 24 ftHatchet Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 12 ftCohasse Brook Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 60 ftWallace Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 15 ftGriggs Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 7 ftRecreation Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 7 ftWestville Dam
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High Hazard 72 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam?
Southbridge Reservoir #5 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 Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam?
Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam is owned by TOWN OF SOUTHBRIDGE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam built?
Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam?
Southbridge Reservoir #5 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 Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam?
Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam last inspected?
Southbridge Reservoir #5 Dam was last inspected on July 9, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.