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