Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Mill Pond Dam, located in Wareham, Massachusetts, is a state-owned structure on the Agawam River with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1850, this Earth dam stands at a height of 16.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1,768 acre-feet. The dam, with a length of 285 feet, creates a surface area of 146 acres and serves a drainage area of 11.4 square miles.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Mill Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition, with a moderate risk rating. The last inspection in November 2019 highlighted the need for improvement and the dam's emergency action plan is yet to be updated. The state regulatory agency, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, oversees the permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this dam to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mill Pond Dam serves as a focal point of interest due to its historical roots, recreational opportunities, and the challenges it faces in terms of safety and maintenance. As discussions around dam safety and resilience continue, this structure on the Agawam River showcases the importance of proper management and risk assessment in safeguarding our water resources amidst changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
285 |
Dam Height |
16.5 |
River Or Stream |
AGAWAM RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
146 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
11.4 |
Nid Storage |
1768 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Mill Pond Dam