Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mill Pond Dam, located in Hampden, Massachusetts, was completed in 1892 and stands as a picturesque example of a masonry dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Situated on the South Branch Mill River, this historic structure boasts a height of 16.9 feet and a storage capacity of 172 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in 2009.

Maintained and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Mill Pond Dam serves as a vital component for recreational activities in the area. With a surface area of 0.03 square miles and a drainage area of 10.06 square miles, the dam provides a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Although the spillway is uncontrolled, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, reflecting the ongoing efforts to manage and maintain this important water resource.

In the care of local government ownership, Mill Pond Dam continues to be a beloved landmark in Springfield. With its rich history, scenic location, and crucial role in water management, this dam is a testament to the enduring importance of preserving and protecting our natural resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1892

Dam Length

48

Dam Height

16.9

River Or Stream

SOUTH BRANCH MILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

0.03

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Drainage Area

10.06

Nid Storage

172

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.