Dean Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dean Pond Dam, located in Brimfield, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1933 with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a hydraulic height of 16 feet, providing a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet. With a surface area of 9.6 acres and a drainage area of 1.45 square miles, Dean Pond Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem and supporting recreational activities in the area.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Dean Pond Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2015. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has an inspection frequency of 5 years. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, measures for risk management and emergency action plans are not specified in the data. The dam serves as a vital resource for water conservation and supports the local fish and wildlife population, making it a key focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

With its rich history dating back to the 1930s and its ongoing role in supporting the ecosystem and recreational activities, Dean Pond Dam stands as a symbol of environmental stewardship and conservation efforts in Massachusetts. As a state-regulated structure, it serves as a model for responsible dam management and highlights the importance of maintaining infrastructure for both practical and environmental purposes. For enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate, Dean Pond Dam offers a fascinating case study of how human-made structures can coexist harmoniously with nature while serving a vital function in preserving the environment.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

155

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

FOSKETT MILL STREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.6

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

1.45

Nid Storage

115

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.