Hartley Saw Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Rochester, Massachusetts, the Hartley Saw Mill Pond Dam stands as a vital structure for irrigation purposes along an unnamed tributary to the Mattapoisett River.
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Summary
Built in 1920, this earth dam with a height of 9.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 6.25 feet serves to store 60 acre-feet of water for agricultural use. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition and undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity.
Overlooking the picturesque 8.3-acre pond created by the dam, the Hartley Saw Mill Pond Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. Regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and is designed to withstand moderate risks associated with its operation. The dam's location in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, highlights its importance in maintaining a sustainable water supply for agricultural activities in the region.
With its historical significance and practical function for irrigation, the Hartley Saw Mill Pond Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor the dam's condition and regulatory oversight, the structure remains a symbol of the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of agriculture with the preservation of natural ecosystems in the region.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
9.5 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY TO MATTAPOISETT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
6.25 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
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.
Hartley Saw Mill Pond Dam
11th Avenue 22, Wareham