North Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Middle Reservoir Dike Wedge Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
The North Reservoir Dam, located in Winchester, Massachusetts, was completed in 1874 and serves as a crucial water supply structure in the region.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25.3 feet and has a storage capacity of 893 acre-feet. The dam impounds water from Sawmill Brook, providing a surface area of 0.09 square miles and serving a drainage area of 0.59 square miles.
Despite its importance for water supply, the North Reservoir Dam poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The dam has a controlled spillway type and a history of poor maintenance, raising concerns for its structural integrity and safety. With a very high risk rating, the dam requires immediate attention and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the water supply it protects. Emergency action plans and regular inspections are essential for mitigating potential risks associated with this critical infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like the North Reservoir Dam become increasingly vital. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk rating, the dam highlights the need for proactive management and investment in infrastructure resilience. By prioritizing safety measures and regular maintenance, stakeholders can work towards safeguarding water resources and enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1874 |
Dam Length |
780 |
Dam Height |
25.3 |
River Or Stream |
SAWMILL BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.09 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.59 |
Nid Storage |
893 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
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.
North Reservoir Dam
Pond Lane Arlington