Lower Pawtucket Locks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

The Lower Pawtucket Locks, also known as Lower Pawtucket Canal Dam, is a historic masonry structure located in Lowell, Massachusetts.


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Summary

Completed in 1822, this dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, flood risk reduction, and recreation. With a height of 19 feet and a controlled spillway width of 78 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 720 acres.

Managed by a private owner, the Lower Pawtucket Locks are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and inspected every three years. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the structure is considered to have a very high risk rating due to its age and historical significance. While the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated periodically to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Located along the Lower Pawtucket Canal, this iconic dam plays a vital role in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate change, the Lower Pawtucket Locks offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of history, engineering, and environmental sustainability in the heart of New England.

Year Completed

1822

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

Lower Pawtucket Canal

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

720

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

4500

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.