Hawkes Pond Outlet Dam, located in Essex County, Massachusetts, serves as a crucial local government-owned structure for water supply purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1895, this Earth-type dam stands at 26 feet high with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, providing storage of up to 1250 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 850 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Saugus River, covers a surface area of 64 acres and has a drainage area of 1.87 square miles.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is regulated and inspected by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was deemed fair, with a moderate risk level. The structure features an uncontrolled spillway and has undergone inspections every two years, with the last assessment conducted in October 2017.
As a key component of the water supply infrastructure in the region, the Hawkes Pond Outlet Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Its historical significance, combined with its functionality and regulatory oversight, underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring this essential structure for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1895 |
Dam Length |
1270 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SAUGUS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
64 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1.87 |
Nid Storage |
1250 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |