Cushing Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Cushing Pond Dam, located in Hingham, Massachusetts, is a private concrete structure built in 1956 with the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a hydraulic height of 8 feet, providing a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 94.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 18.92 acres, the dam plays a significant role in managing the water resources of the Crooked Meadow River.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Cushing Pond Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. Although the dam has a satisfactory condition assessment and a moderate hazard potential, regular inspections every five years help to mitigate risks and ensure proper maintenance. With its uncontrolled spillway type and a drainage area of 3.39 square miles, the dam serves as a crucial element in the local water management system, providing both recreational opportunities and water resource protection for the surrounding area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cushing Pond Dam represents a blend of engineering excellence and natural beauty. Its design and construction reflect a balance between recreational use and environmental conservation, showcasing the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. As a state-regulated structure with a significant role in managing the Crooked Meadow River, the dam serves as a focal point for ongoing efforts to protect and preserve water resources in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
70 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
CROOKED MEADOW RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
18.92 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
3.39 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ponkapoag Camp of Appalachian Mountain Club
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Spang Camp Site
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Missionary Point
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YMCA Camp
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Camp Christina Entrance
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Cushing Pond Dam
Ship Street Hingham