The Great River Wall (Grw), also known as the Northern Canal Wall, is a federal-owned structure in Lowell, Massachusetts, that serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, fire protection, flood risk reduction, navigation, and recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1848, this masonry dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a hydraulic height of 38 feet, with a total structural height of 36 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 720 acres, with a drainage area of 3,979 acres.
The Great River Wall is part of a network of 15 associated structures and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam has a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating of 2. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in 2015, and while the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted every three years. The dam features flap and slide gates for water control and does not have a spillway.
Overall, the Great River Wall plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, providing important services such as flood control and power generation. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this historical structure fascinating for its multi-purpose design and impact on the surrounding environment.
Year Completed |
1848 |
Dam Length |
2485 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
Northern Canal |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
720 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
3979 |
Nid Storage |
4500 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Flap - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
38 |