Collinsville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Collinsville Dam, located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, was completed in 1850 and serves as a critical structure for fish and wildlife conservation.


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Summary

With a height of 22.4 feet and a storage capacity of 660 acre-feet, this masonry dam on Beaver Brook is vital for maintaining normal storage levels of 280 acre-feet for recreational purposes. However, recent inspections have indicated a poor condition assessment and a significant hazard potential, highlighting the need for immediate attention and maintenance.

Managed by a private owner, Collinsville Dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. Despite its historical significance and role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats, the dam faces moderate risks and requires risk management measures to ensure its long-term stability. The dam's location in Dracut, along with its uncontrolled spillway and buttress core type, further emphasize the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to prevent any potential disasters or emergencies.

As a key structure in the New England District, Collinsville Dam not only provides essential habitat for local wildlife but also offers recreational opportunities for the community. With its unique design and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our natural environment.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

22.4

River Or Stream

BEAVER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

37

Hydraulic Height

18.5

Drainage Area

87.4

Nid Storage

660

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.