Russell Mill Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Russell Mill Pond, located in Kingston, Massachusetts, is a captivating water resource managed for hydroelectric power generation and recreational purposes.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam structure, completed in 1898, stands at a height of 25 feet with a length of 400 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. The pond covers a surface area of 30 acres and drains a watershed of 3 square miles, making it a vital resource for the surrounding community.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Russell Mill Pond is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation and compliance with environmental standards. Despite its low hazard potential, the pond poses a high risk due to its age and the lack of available condition assessment data. With a history dating back over a century, this water resource plays a crucial role in the region's energy production and recreational activities, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard its integrity for future generations.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique characteristics and historical significance of Russell Mill Pond make it an intriguing subject for further exploration and study. With its diverse purposes, regulatory oversight, and risk assessment considerations, this hydroelectric facility embodies the intersection of human intervention with natural ecosystems, serving as a valuable case study for understanding the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Russell Mill Pond |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Russell Mill Pond