Lake Cochituate Dam, located in Framingham, Massachusetts, is a masonry structure completed in 1920 with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 4762 acre-feet and a drainage area of 23.9 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area.
The dam, situated on Cochituate Brook, is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment conducted in 2016 deemed the dam to be satisfactory. With a risk assessment categorizing it as moderate, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are being continuously evaluated and updated to meet the necessary guidelines and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Lake Cochituate Dam not only serves as a recreational area but also as a habitat for wildlife, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring this vital water resource. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation of dams like Lake Cochituate Dam is essential for the sustainability of ecosystems and the protection of communities against potential hazards.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
COCHITUATE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
579 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.5 |
Drainage Area |
23.9 |
Nid Storage |
4762 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |