Wallace Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Wallace Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 22 ft (taller than 73.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 220 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 143 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 78 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00162 |
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 GLOUCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Fernwood Lake West Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftLily Pond Outlet Dam
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High Hazard 5 ftFernwood Lake North Dam
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High Hazard 16 ftUpper Banjo Pond Dam
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High Hazard 17 ftDykes Meadow Dam
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Significant Hazard 52 ftBuswell Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 4 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wallace Pond Dam?
Wallace Pond 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 Wallace Pond Dam?
Wallace Pond Dam is owned by CITY OF GLOUCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wallace Pond Dam built?
Wallace Pond 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 Wallace Pond Dam?
Wallace Pond 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 Wallace Pond Dam?
Wallace Pond Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Wallace Pond Dam last inspected?
Wallace Pond Dam was last inspected on October 1, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.