Horseshoe Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Horseshoe Pond Dam, located in Wareham, Massachusetts, is a privately owned earth and stone dam on the Weweantic River.
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Summary
Built in 1926, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 59.3 acres and a storage capacity of 755 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with the last inspection conducted in November 2009.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation regulates the Horseshoe Pond Dam, ensuring that it undergoes periodic inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is crucial for stakeholders and water resource enthusiasts to monitor the condition of the dam and implement necessary risk management measures. Although the dam's purpose is primarily for recreation, its impact on the surrounding environment and water resources should not be underestimated.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Horseshoe Pond Dam becomes even more critical. With a designated emergency action plan, regular risk assessments, and potential improvements to its condition, this dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while ensuring the safety and sustainability of the Weweantic River ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
215 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
WEWEANTIC RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
59.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
57.1 |
Nid Storage |
755 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Horseshoe Pond Dam
11th Avenue 22, Wareham