Upper Shawme Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Upper Shawme Lake Dam in Sandwich, Massachusetts, is a significant earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 11.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 9.5 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 234.2 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20.7 acres. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
The dam, located in a spring-fed river, has a spillway type of uncontrolled and is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Despite this, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory as of February 2016. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), indicating a level of risk management measures in place. The dam is not associated with any federal agencies and falls under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Shawme Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of water management and recreational activities. Its strategic location and design showcase the importance of maintaining infrastructure for both environmental conservation and public enjoyment. As a state-regulated dam with a history of satisfactory assessments, the Upper Shawme Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam management in safeguarding water resources and enhancing community resilience in the face of potential risks.
Dam Length |
190 |
Dam Height |
11.5 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING FED |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
234.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Upper Shawme Lake Dam
Craven's Landing