Cochran Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Cochran Dam, located in Dover, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Charles River.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this gravity dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 960 acre-feet. The dam is primarily made of earth and buttress materials, serving as a crucial infrastructure to control water flow and protect surrounding areas from potential flooding.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Cochran Dam undergoes regular inspections by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a drainage area of 4.25 square miles. As a key component in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region, Cochran Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems along the Charles River.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cochran Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in adapting to changing environmental conditions. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a critical piece of the puzzle in managing water flow and protecting communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. Its strategic location and design highlight the intersection of engineering, conservation, and public safety in ensuring a sustainable future for the region's water resources.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
CHARLES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
4.25 |
Nid Storage |
960 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
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"The Sandpits" Private Hiking and Winter Sports Area
Cochran Dam
College Road Wellesley