Nelson Mills Pond Dam, located in Northfield, Massachusetts, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1937 primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 27 feet with a hydraulic height of 16.5 feet, the dam impounds Bennett Brook, creating a serene pond with a surface area of 21.76 acres. The dam has a storage capacity of 406 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.3 square miles, making it a significant water resource in the area.
Despite its recreational value, Nelson Mills Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in December 2017. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unspecified, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols and maintenance to ensure the surrounding community's safety and the preservation of the dam's ecological and recreational benefits.
With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management, Nelson Mills Pond Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As efforts continue to address its maintenance and safety concerns, the dam remains a key feature in the landscape of Franklin County, Massachusetts, providing both recreational opportunities and a reminder of the importance of sustainable dam management practices in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
BENNETT BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.76 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.3 |
Nid Storage |
406 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Ashuelot River At Hinsdale
|
225cfs |
Millers River At Erving
|
214cfs |
Connecticut River At Montague City
|
2710cfs |
Green River Near Colrain
|
62cfs |
North River At Shattuckville
|
72cfs |
Deerfield River Near West Deerfield
|
340cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Richardson-Zlogar Cabin
|
||
Barton Cove
|
||
Erving State Forest
|
||
Fort Dummer State Park
|
||
Falls Brook Shelter
|