Spot Pond Dike #5
Key Takeaway
Spot Pond Dike #5 is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1880 and is 146 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 12.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 270 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 307 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1880 (146 years old) |
| NID ID | MA03318 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
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High Hazard 45 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Spot Pond Dike #5?
Spot Pond Dike #5 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 Spot Pond Dike #5?
Spot Pond Dike #5 is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Spot Pond Dike #5 built?
Spot Pond Dike #5 was completed in 1880, making it 146 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 Spot Pond Dike #5?
Spot Pond Dike #5 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 Spot Pond Dike #5?
Spot Pond Dike #5 has a dam height of 9 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 Spot Pond Dike #5 last inspected?
Spot Pond Dike #5 was last inspected on May 21, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.