Wallace Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Wallace Pond Dam, located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, is a crucial structure owned by the local government to manage water supply from the Little River Tributary.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a length of 220 feet. With a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.26 square miles, the dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for the area.

Despite being regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Wallace Pond Dam has a high hazard potential and is considered to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2013. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its safety and effectiveness in managing water resources in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Wallace Pond Dam to be an integral part of the local infrastructure, balancing the needs of water supply with the potential risks associated with its operation.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

LITTLE RIVER TRIBUTORY

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

143

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.