Petersons Saw Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Petersons Saw Mill Pond Dam, located in Duxbury, Massachusetts, stands as a vital structure for the local government, serving the primary purpose of irrigation along the South River.
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Summary
With a dam height of 14.3 feet and a hydraulic height of 10.8 feet, this earth-type dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 39.4 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 33.1 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.92 acres, making it a significant asset for water management in the region.
Despite its importance, the Petersons Saw Mill Pond Dam does pose a significant hazard potential, with a fair condition assessment as of January 2014. The dam's risk level is rated as moderate, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. The dam is state-regulated, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to uphold safety standards and compliance with regulations.
As a key component in the local water infrastructure, Petersons Saw Mill Pond Dam serves as a critical resource for irrigation purposes and water management in Plymouth County, Massachusetts. Its role in controlling water flow along the South River highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring the dam to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this dam a fascinating subject for study and advocacy in sustainable water management practices.
Dam Length |
130 |
Dam Height |
14.3 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.92 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.52 |
Nid Storage |
39.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Petersons Saw Mill Pond Dam
Indian Head Drive 1-307, Hanover