South Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
South Reservoir Dam, located in Medford, Massachusetts, was completed in 1882 and serves as a crucial water supply source for the area.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet with a hydraulic height of 42 feet. With a storage capacity of 1615 acre-feet, it plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for the region. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in June 2016.
The South Reservoir Dam, with a spillway type of uncontrolled and a drainage area of 0.78 square miles, presents a moderate risk level to nearby residents and properties. With a surface area of 0.13 square miles, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 1350 acre-feet, making it a significant component of the local water infrastructure. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in February 2014, and while it meets guidelines, there is no updated information on the preparedness and risk assessment measures in place. Despite its age, the dam continues to be operational, providing essential water resources to the community.
In a region characterized by climate variability and increasing water demand, South Reservoir Dam remains a critical asset for water resource management in Medford, Massachusetts. With its historical significance and essential role in water supply, the dam's condition assessment and risk management measures highlight the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital infrastructure. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the continued monitoring and maintenance of South Reservoir Dam are essential to safeguarding the local water supply and mitigating potential risks.
Year Completed |
1882 |
Dam Length |
950 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
N/A |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.13 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
0.78 |
Nid Storage |
1615 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
45 |
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.
South Reservoir Dam
Pond Lane Arlington