Washington Street Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

The Washington Street Dam, located in Hudson, Massachusetts, stands as a significant structure on the Assabet River.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this masonry dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage. With a height of 16 feet and a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the river and protecting the surrounding areas from potential hazards.

Under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Washington Street Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam has been assessed to be in fair condition, with a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in Middlesex County, Massachusetts.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of the Washington Street Dam, as it continues to stand as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the region. With a moderate risk assessment and a solid emergency action plan, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive measures in mitigating potential risks and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

68

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

ASSABET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

9.2

Drainage Area

64

Nid Storage

400

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.