Guided Tour of the Charles River Dam

Description

The Charles River Dam, located at the mouth of the Charles River in Boston, is a critical piece of Massachusetts’ flood control and navigational infrastructure. Built in the late 1970s to replace an older dam, it creates a freshwater basin by preventing saltwater intrusion and controlling water levels — a function crucial for protecting the timber pilings supporting Boston’s Back Bay neighborhoods.

The dam features three locks, a visitor center, a pumping station with powerful pumps to manage water levels, and a fish passage that helps restore the river’s ecosystem by allowing fish to migrate upstream to spawn. Managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and Massachusetts Navigational Operations, the dam regulates water levels, prevents coastal flooding, and supports vessel traffic between the Charles River Basin and Boston Harbor.

This exclusive guided tour offers attendees a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at one of the state’s most significant civil works facilities. Participants will learn about the dam’s history, operations, and maintenance practices directly from DCR and Navigational Operations staff while viewing areas of the facility that are typically closed to the public. Please note that proper PPE consisting of a hard hat, safety vest, eye protection, and boots will be required.

There will be a networking social hour to follow the tour at the nearby Night Shift Brewing on Lovejoy Wharf. Appetizers will be served and are included in the registration fee.

Parking Information: There is parking available at 40 Charles River Ave, Charlestown, MA (Garage) and at Constitution Wharf (Lot).

Registration Deadline: Monday, October 27, 2025

Please note that there is a 25-person capacity for this event due to project office and site constraints.

Information/Registration: Register to attend this meeting and pay by credit card or request an invoice by clicking Register. To register online for an event at the BSCES member rate you must login or enter the email connected to your ASCE membership. Cancellations received after Friday, October 24, 2025 and no-shows will be billed.