Elm Street Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 13, 2026
Elm Street Dam, located in Kingston, Massachusetts, on the Jones River, was completed in 1886 and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5.3 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. With a surface area of 5.7 acres and a drainage area of 20.08 square miles, Elm Street Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding environment.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Elm Street Dam is inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Classified as having a significant hazard potential but assessed to be in fair condition as of September 2015, the dam poses a moderate risk (level 3) and is subject to ongoing risk management measures. Despite its age, Elm Street Dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of providing a habitat for fish and wildlife, as well as a recreational space for the community to enjoy.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Elm Street Dam for its historical significance, ecological impact, and the efforts undertaken to maintain its functionality and safety. As a key component of the local ecosystem and a recreational hub, Elm Street Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices and the preservation of natural habitats in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1886 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
JONES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
5.3 |
Drainage Area |
20.08 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
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.
Elm Street Dam