Goose Cove Reservoir South Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Goose Cove Reservoir South Dam, located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, is a vital component of the local water supply system.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 550 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1140 acre-feet and a surface area of 60 acres, it plays a crucial role in the management of water resources in the area.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. Although it has a fair condition assessment as of 2013, it has a high hazard potential due to its location on the Annisquam River. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper infrastructure management in the face of climate change and increasing water demands.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Goose Cove Reservoir South Dam to be a significant structure in Essex County, Massachusetts. Its presence not only contributes to the water supply needs of the region but also highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for safety and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
ANNISQUAM RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
0.66 |
Nid Storage |
1140 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Goose Cove Reservoir South Dam
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