Curve St. Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

Curve St.


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Summary

Dam, located in Carlisle, Massachusetts, is a vital water resource infrastructure owned by the local government. Built in 1904, this earth dam on the Great Brook primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 127 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 8.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 1.3 feet, contributing to a surface area of 20.5 acres and draining a 3.77 square mile watershed.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Curve St. Dam is regulated by the state of Massachusetts, ensuring that it meets safety standards and is regularly inspected. The dam has a significant hazard potential, but its condition is assessed as fair. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management, with a moderate risk assessment rating. This structure serves as a key component of the water infrastructure in Middlesex County, demonstrating the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring in preserving water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

8.5

River Or Stream

GREAT BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20.5

Hydraulic Height

1.3

Drainage Area

3.77

Nid Storage

127

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.