Watershops Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Watershops Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1824 and is 202 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 | 33 ft (taller than 89.5% in MA) |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 2.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 198 acres |
| Drainage Area | 32 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1824 (202 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00569 |
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 SPRINGFIELD, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, BUILDINGS, AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 18 ftLower Bemis Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 33 ftDwight
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Significant Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Watershops Pond Dam?
Watershops 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 Watershops Pond Dam?
Watershops Pond Dam is owned by CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, BUILDINGS, AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Watershops Pond Dam built?
Watershops Pond Dam was completed in 1824, making it 202 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 Watershops Pond Dam?
Watershops Pond 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 Watershops Pond Dam?
Watershops Pond Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Watershops Pond Dam last inspected?
Watershops Pond Dam was last inspected on January 27, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.