Sunset Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Sunset Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.1% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 230 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 3.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 300 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00001 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
FAR HILLS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Private
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset Lake Dam is owned by FAR HILLS ASSOCIATION, INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sunset Lake Dam built?
Sunset Lake Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset Lake 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset Lake Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Sunset Lake Dam last inspected?
Sunset Lake Dam was last inspected on April 17, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.