Sugden Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Sugden Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1882 and is 144 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 34 ft (taller than 90% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 440 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 980 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 85 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1882 (144 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00698 |
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 SPENCER, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sugden Reservoir Dam?
Sugden 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 Sugden Reservoir Dam?
Sugden Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF SPENCER, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sugden Reservoir Dam built?
Sugden Reservoir Dam was completed in 1882, making it 144 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 Sugden Reservoir Dam?
Sugden Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sugden Reservoir Dam?
Sugden Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Sugden Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Sugden Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 18, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.