John A. W. Pearce Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
John A.
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Summary
W. Pearce Lake Dam is a state-regulated structure located in Saugus, Massachusetts, along a tributary of the Saugus River. It serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for local wildlife and recreational opportunities for the community. The dam is classified as an Earth type with a height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 9.4 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam has undergone regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety. The emergency action plan for the dam was last reviewed in June 2018, highlighting the importance of preparedness for any potential risks associated with the structure. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the John A. W. Pearce Lake Dam remains a crucial asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region, requiring ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard its functionality and surrounding environment.
Dam Length |
102 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF SAUGUS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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 A. W. Pearce Lake Dam
Blossom Street Extension 398, Lynn