Silk Mill Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Silk Mill Dam, located in Newton, Massachusetts, was completed in 1912 and serves as a critical flood risk reduction structure along the Charles River.
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Summary
This concrete dam, with a height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and covers a drainage area of 211 square miles. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition and has a low hazard potential, as indicated by the most recent inspection in 2010.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Silk Mill Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Its uncontrolled spillway type and 50-foot length contribute to its effectiveness in managing water flow and reducing flood risk. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, requiring ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its continued functionality and safety.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management will appreciate the strategic importance of Silk Mill Dam in the flood risk reduction efforts along the Charles River. With its historical significance and vital role in protecting the local community, this concrete structure exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and public safety. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Silk Mill Dam become increasingly critical in safeguarding our communities and natural resources.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
50 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
CHARLES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
211 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Charles River At Wellesley
|
102cfs |
Stony Brook Reservoir At Dam Near Waltham
|
0cfs |
Charles River At Waltham
|
100cfs |
Charles River At Dover
|
131cfs |
Stony Brook At Rt 20 At Waltham
|
13cfs |
Mother Brook At Dedham
|
37cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Minha casa
|
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YMCA Camp
|
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Spang Camp Site
|
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Ponkapoag Camp of Appalachian Mountain Club
|
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Missionary Point
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Silk Mill Dam
Needham Street 511, Dedham