Williams Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Williams Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1882 and is 144 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 | 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 270 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 767 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 576 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1882 (144 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00451 |
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 MARLBOROUGH, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
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High Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Williams Lake Dam?
Williams Lake 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 Williams Lake Dam?
Williams Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Williams Lake Dam built?
Williams Lake Dam was completed in 1882, making it 144 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 Williams Lake Dam?
Williams Lake 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 Williams Lake Dam?
Williams Lake 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 Williams Lake Dam last inspected?
Williams Lake Dam was last inspected on August 7, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.