Bound Brook Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Bound Brook Pond Dam, located in Norwell, Massachusetts, is a local government-owned structure used primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1900, stands at a height of 7 feet with a hydraulic height of 5 feet. With a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a surface area of 0.03 square miles, the dam serves the Bound Brook river, offering visitors a serene environment for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Bound Brook Pond Dam is regulated by the state of Massachusetts, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. Despite being classified as low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk due to its age and limited emergency preparedness. With the last inspection conducted in 2009, the structure remains a vital part of the local landscape and a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

As a significant landmark in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, the Bound Brook Pond Dam provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy recreational activities while appreciating the importance of water resource management. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the dam continues to play a crucial role in the local ecosystem and serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural landscapes in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

BOUND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.03

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

2.14

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.