Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Mill Pond Dam, located in Danvers, Massachusetts, along Crane Brook, is a significant earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1875, this dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19.5 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5.1 square miles. With a hazard potential rated as significant and a condition assessment marked as satisfactory, the dam is closely regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts.
The dam, which has a storage capacity of 322 acre-feet, serves as a popular spot for recreational activities in the area, spanning a length of 600 feet and covering a surface area of 10 acres. Despite its age, the dam has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in April 2014, and it has been maintained to meet safety standards. With Seth Moulton as the representative for the area, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Overall, Mill Pond Dam is a historically significant structure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in water resource management in Essex County, Massachusetts. With its controlled spillway and satisfactory condition, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight to ensure its longevity and safety for years to come.
Year Completed |
1875 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
CRANE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
19.5 |
Drainage Area |
5.1 |
Nid Storage |
322 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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
Ipswich Road Topsfield