Merrimack Waste Gate Reservoir Report
Nearby: Merrimack Dam Rolling
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
The Merrimack Waste Gate in Lowell, Massachusetts, is a historic stone dam completed in 1848 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
Situated on the Merrimack Canal, this structure serves multiple purposes including fire protection, flood risk reduction, navigation, and recreation. With a height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet and a surface area of 720 acres.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Merrimack Waste Gate has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, and the last inspection took place in May 2019. The structure features a controlled spillway with a width of 12 feet and is associated with 15 other structures in the area. The dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management and climate adaptation efforts, making it a significant site for enthusiasts interested in these topics.
Overall, the Merrimack Waste Gate stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early water resource management in the region, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges and risks associated with aging infrastructure. Its historical significance, multiple functions, and regulatory oversight make it a fascinating subject for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience. As discussions around sustainable development and infrastructure upgrades continue, the Merrimack Waste Gate remains a focal point for understanding the intersection of history, technology, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1848 |
Dam Length |
12 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Merrimack Canal |
Primary Dam Type |
Stone |
Surface Area |
720 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
4500 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Merrimack Waste Gate
Billerica Street 5-65, Lowell