Robinson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Robinson Pond Dam, located in Oxford, Massachusetts, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1838, this concrete dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12.1 feet. With a length of 850 feet and a storage capacity of 850 acre-feet, the dam creates a surface area of 96 acres and drains a 1.14 square mile watershed.

Despite its historical significance, the dam is currently in poor condition and has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential. The Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts regulates and inspects the dam, with the last inspection taking place in November 2017. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), there is a need for risk management measures to be put in place to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment in the event of a dam failure.

As a site of potential risk, Robinson Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of dams, especially those with a significant hazard potential. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the complexities involved in managing and maintaining infrastructure like Robinson Pond Dam to safeguard against potential disasters and protect the natural resources it holds back.

Year Completed

1838

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

LOWE'S BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

96

Hydraulic Height

12.1

Drainage Area

1.14

Nid Storage

850

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.