Walden Pond Outlet Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Located in Essex, Massachusetts, the Walden Pond Outlet Dam stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure for water supply purposes, serving as a vital resource for the surrounding communities.
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Summary
Completed in 1890, this earth dam has a height of 43.3 feet and a hydraulic height of 39.2 feet, with a storage capacity of 6900 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Saugus River and Ipswich River, providing essential water storage and management for the region.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Walden Pond Outlet Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as in fair condition, with regular inspections scheduled every two years. With its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment, the dam plays a critical role in water resource management in the area, serving as a vital link in ensuring water supply sustainability and resilience against climate change impacts.
Standing as a testament to 19th-century engineering, the Walden Pond Outlet Dam remains a key component in the water infrastructure network of Massachusetts. With its strategic location and storage capacity, the dam plays a pivotal role in managing water resources for the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water supply, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
2220 |
Dam Height |
43.3 |
River Or Stream |
SAUGUS RIVER, IPSWICH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
243 |
Hydraulic Height |
39.2 |
Drainage Area |
1.65 |
Nid Storage |
6900 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
43 |
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.
Walden Pond Outlet Dam
Blossom Street Extension 398, Lynn