West Medway Dam
Key Takeaway
West Medway Dam is classified as low hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 80 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 56 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 51 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 20 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00791 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MEDWAY POWER AND ELECTRIC
Private
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High Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of West Medway Dam?
West Medway Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates West Medway Dam?
West Medway Dam is owned by MEDWAY POWER AND ELECTRIC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was West Medway Dam built?
West Medway Dam was completed in 1850, making it 176 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 West Medway Dam?
West Medway Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is West Medway Dam?
West Medway 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 West Medway Dam last inspected?
West Medway Dam was last inspected on March 5, 1998. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.