Salem Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Salem Pond Dam, located in N.


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Summary

Andover, Massachusetts, was completed in 1930 and serves as a crucial infrastructure for fish and wildlife conservation efforts in the area. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this gravity dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of maintaining a fish and wildlife pond, Salem Pond Dam also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.

Despite being classified as a low-hazard dam with a fair condition assessment, Salem Pond Dam has a moderate risk level due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding area in the event of a failure. The dam is inspected every 10 years to ensure its structural integrity and adherence to safety regulations. While the spillway type is uncontrolled, the dam's hazard potential remains low, providing a sense of security for nearby residents and wildlife alike.

Overall, Salem Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and wildlife conservation efforts in Essex County, Massachusetts. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam continues to fulfill its mission of preserving the natural habitat while offering recreational opportunities for the community.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

12

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

132

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.