Townsend Harbor Dam
Key Takeaway
Townsend Harbor Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 273 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 116 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 61 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00138 |
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
HOLLINGSWORTH & VOSE COMPANY
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Townsend Harbor Dam?
Townsend Harbor 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 Townsend Harbor Dam?
Townsend Harbor Dam is owned by HOLLINGSWORTH & VOSE COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Townsend Harbor Dam built?
Townsend Harbor Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Townsend Harbor Dam?
Townsend Harbor Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Townsend Harbor Dam?
Townsend Harbor Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Townsend Harbor Dam last inspected?
Townsend Harbor Dam was last inspected on September 29, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.