Stony Brook Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Stony Brook Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1887 and is 139 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 | 32 ft (taller than 88.6% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 72 acres |
| Drainage Area | 24 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1887 (139 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00293 |
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
CITY OF CAMBRIDGE, WATER DEPARTMENT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 22 ftNorumbega Reservoir Dam No. 1
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Low Hazard 9 ftNorumbega Reservoir East Dike
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High Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Stony Brook Reservoir Dam?
Stony Brook 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 Stony Brook Reservoir Dam?
Stony Brook Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF CAMBRIDGE, WATER DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Stony Brook Reservoir Dam built?
Stony Brook Reservoir Dam was completed in 1887, making it 139 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 Stony Brook Reservoir Dam?
Stony Brook 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 Stony Brook Reservoir Dam?
Stony Brook Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Stony Brook Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Stony Brook Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 24, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.