Watertown Dam
Key Takeaway
Watertown Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 410 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 30 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 273 sq mi |
| NID ID | MA00456 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Watertown Dam?
Watertown 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 Watertown Dam?
Watertown Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Watertown Dam?
Watertown Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Watertown Dam?
Watertown Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Watertown Dam last inspected?
Watertown Dam was last inspected on March 13, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.