Swans Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Swans Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1848 and is 178 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.1% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 168 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 282 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 34 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1848 (178 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00659 |
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
HOWARD FEASE
Private
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Significant Hazard 5 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Swans Pond Dam?
Swans Pond Dam 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 Swans Pond Dam?
Swans Pond Dam is owned by HOWARD FEASE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swans Pond Dam built?
Swans Pond Dam was completed in 1848, making it 178 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 Swans Pond Dam?
Swans Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Swans Pond Dam?
Swans Pond 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 Swans Pond Dam last inspected?
Swans Pond Dam was last inspected on October 28, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.