Nemasket Park Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stony Brook Pond Dam Woods Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Nemasket Park Dam, located in Middleborough, Massachusetts, is a vital structure regulating the flow of the Nemasket River.
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Summary
Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at 15 feet high with a hydraulic height of 23 feet, serving as a significant water resource for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and a drainage area of 56.5 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating the risk of flooding.
Owned and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Nemasket Park Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, providing reassurance to local residents and stakeholders. The dam's spillway, designed as uncontrolled, helps to manage water overflow during periods of high discharge, showcasing its importance in protecting the surrounding environment and communities.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, Nemasket Park Dam stands as a critical infrastructure in safeguarding against potential risks and uncertainties. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's management measures and emergency preparedness are essential in ensuring the resilience of the structure and the protection of downstream areas. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nemasket Park Dam serves as a fascinating example of how infrastructure plays a pivotal role in maintaining the balance between human needs and environmental sustainability in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
110 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
NEMASKET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
56.5 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Taunton River Near Bridgewater
|
592cfs |
Jones River At Kingston
|
36cfs |
Threemile River At North Dighton
|
119cfs |
Segreganset River Near Dighton
|
28cfs |
Wading River Near Norton
|
55cfs |
Indian Head River At Hanover
|
104cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Nemasket Park Dam