Stiles Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Stiles Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 | 29 ft (taller than 85.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 325 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1865 (161 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00983 |
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
STILES LAKE WATER DISTRICT
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 5 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Stiles Reservoir Dam?
Stiles 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 Stiles Reservoir Dam?
Stiles Reservoir Dam is owned by STILES LAKE WATER DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Stiles Reservoir Dam built?
Stiles Reservoir Dam was completed in 1865, making it 161 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 Stiles Reservoir Dam?
Stiles Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Stiles Reservoir Dam?
Stiles Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Stiles Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Stiles Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 23, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.