Rolling is a private hydroelectric dam located in Lowell, Massachusetts, along the Merrimack Canal.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1835, this masonry dam stands at 18 feet high with a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Rolling is for hydroelectric power generation, but it also serves other functions such as fire protection, flood risk reduction, navigation, and recreation.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Rolling has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 16 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 226 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment of Rolling is currently unavailable, it undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
With its historical significance and multifaceted functions, Rolling serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Rolling in sustainable energy production and environmental protection is crucial for promoting a balanced approach to water management and climate adaptation in the region.
Year Completed |
1835 |
Dam Length |
18 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Merrimack Canal |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
720 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
4500 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |