John Leo Silver Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
John Leo Silver Lake Dam in Saugus, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure owned by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 12 feet, serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The dam, with a length of 180 feet, has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12.7 acres.
Despite its key role in providing habitat for fish and wildlife, the dam's condition assessment is poor, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in May 2018 revealed the need for improvements to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating potential vulnerabilities that need to be addressed to mitigate any potential risks.
Located in Essex County, Massachusetts, the John Leo Silver Lake Dam is vital for recreation and wildlife conservation in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial to prioritize the maintenance and improvement of structures like this to ensure their continued functionality and safety for both the environment and the community.
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF TO LOWER POND |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
John Leo Silver Lake Dam
Blossom Street Extension 398, Lynn