Parker River Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Parker River Dam #1, located in Newbury, Massachusetts, serves as a crucial structure for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a drainage area of 24.9 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this low hazard potential dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of 2009. The structure features an uncontrolled spillway type and has a surface area of 0.02 square miles. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has met state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance for the community's benefit.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Parker River Dam #1 represents a significant infrastructure piece in the local landscape. Its presence on the Parker River contributes to water supply management efforts and highlights the importance of maintaining and regulating such structures for the sustainable use of natural resources. With its low hazard potential and fair condition, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices in Essex County, Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

PARKER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.02

Hydraulic Height

7.5

Drainage Area

24.9

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.