East Canal Syphon Spillway Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
The East Canal Syphon Spillway in Lowell, Massachusetts, is a fascinating structure with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1923.
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Summary
Owned and operated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this masonry dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and also supports fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, flood risk reduction, navigation, and recreation in the area. The spillway, with an uncontrolled design and a width of 15 feet, plays a crucial role in managing water flow from the Eastern Canal.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the East Canal Syphon Spillway has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in May 2019. The structure has a structural height of 20 feet, a dam height of 19 feet, and a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet. While its condition assessment is currently not available, the spillway's overall risk management measures are considered adequate. As a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure, the East Canal Syphon Spillway represents a blend of historical significance and modern functionality in ensuring efficient water management for various purposes.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
36 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
Eastern 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
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.
East Canal Syphon Spillway
Billerica Street 5-65, Lowell