Collins Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Collins Pond Dam is a state-regulated structure located in Andover, Massachusetts, along a tributary of the Skug River.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this concrete dam stands at a height of 13 feet and serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a normal storage capacity of 10.5 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 141 acres and has a drainage area of 0.62 square miles. Despite its significant hazard potential and unsatisfactory condition assessment, the dam is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and functionality.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Collins Pond Dam plays a crucial role in supporting local fish and wildlife populations and providing recreational opportunities for the community. The dam's spillway, classified as uncontrolled, helps regulate water flow and prevent overflow during periods of heavy rainfall. While the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years, its risk assessment remains moderate, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards and ensure public safety.

As a key element of the water resource infrastructure in Essex County, Collins Pond Dam is closely monitored and regulated to uphold its structural integrity and safeguard the surrounding environment. With its unique design and historical significance, the dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of dam management, wildlife conservation, and recreational use in the region.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF SKUG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

141

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.62

Nid Storage

33

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.