Artichoke River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
The Artichoke River Dam in Massachusetts, built in 1950, stands as a masonry structure with a height of 14.9 feet and a hydraulic height of 9.2 feet.
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Summary
With a storage capacity of 176 acre-feet, it serves various purposes including flood control and water supply management. The dam, located in Newburyport, is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring state inspections and enforcement measures are in place.
Despite its low hazard potential, the Artichoke River Dam currently has a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in May 2015. It is listed as a moderate risk (3) structure, with a recommended inspection frequency of 10 years. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it meets state permitting and regulatory requirements. The dam's association with the Artichoke River and its vital role in water resource management make it a significant structure for climate and water resource enthusiasts.
Overall, the Artichoke River Dam is a critical infrastructure piece in Essex County, Massachusetts, helping to regulate the flow of the Artichoke River and providing essential water management services. As a privately owned dam, it plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area. Despite its current poor condition assessment, the dam's state-regulated status ensures ongoing inspections and enforcement measures to maintain its structural integrity and functionality. For those interested in water resources and climate, the Artichoke River Dam serves as a noteworthy example of the importance of dam infrastructure in managing and safeguarding our water sources.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
14.9 |
River Or Stream |
ARTICHOKE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
17.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.2 |
Drainage Area |
6.8 |
Nid Storage |
176 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Artichoke River Dam
Attitash Avenue 39, Merrimac