Lake Cochituate Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: February 22, 2026

Lake Cochituate Dam, located in Framingham, Massachusetts, is a masonry structure completed in 1920 with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 4762 acre-feet and a drainage area of 23.9 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area.

The dam, situated on Cochituate Brook, is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment conducted in 2016 deemed the dam to be satisfactory. With a risk assessment categorizing it as moderate, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are being continuously evaluated and updated to meet the necessary guidelines and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

Lake Cochituate Dam not only serves as a recreational area but also as a habitat for wildlife, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring this vital water resource. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation of dams like Lake Cochituate Dam is essential for the sustainability of ecosystems and the protection of communities against potential hazards.



°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

COCHITUATE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

579

Hydraulic Height

10.5

Drainage Area

23.9

Nid Storage

4762

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.