Breeds Pond Outlet Dam #5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Breeds Pond Outlet Dam #5, located in Lynn, Massachusetts, is a concrete dam constructed in 1870 for the primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a hydraulic height of 39 feet, serving as a vital structure for managing water from Moore's Brook, a tributary of Saugus. With a storage capacity of 6,200 acre-feet and a normal storage of 5,200 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the area.
Despite its age, Breeds Pond Outlet Dam #5 is in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2017, with a hazard potential rated as high. The dam is state-regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, providing essential water supply management for the community.
With its historical significance and important role in water resource management, Breeds Pond Outlet Dam #5 stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past while serving as a vital piece of infrastructure for the present and future. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Breeds Pond Outlet Dam #5 to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water systems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1870 |
Dam Length |
1420 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
MOORE'S BROOK, TRIBUTARY OF SAUGUS |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
0.37 |
Hydraulic Height |
39 |
Drainage Area |
0.95 |
Nid Storage |
6200 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
44 |
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.
Breeds Pond Outlet Dam #5
Blossom Street Extension 398, Lynn