Rose Brook Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Rose Brook Lower Dam, located in Wareham, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure used primarily for irrigation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, constructed in 1930, stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet. With a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a surface area of 0.02 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, particularly for agricultural activities.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the Rose Brook Lower Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of May 2017. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure.
With a drainage area of 1.4 square miles and a spillway type classified as uncontrolled, the Rose Brook Lower Dam serves as a vital component of the water infrastructure in Plymouth County. Its association with the Rose Brook river system underscores its importance in maintaining water resources for the local community. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the sustainable management of dams like Rose Brook Lower Dam becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring resilience in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
ROSE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.02 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
1.4 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Rose Brook Lower Dam