Little River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Little River Dam, located in Haverhill, Massachusetts, is a privately owned stone dam on the Little River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 12 feet and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 4 acres and a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. It is regulated and inspected by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition according to a 2013 assessment. With a drainage area of 27.9 square miles, the dam poses a moderate risk (level 3) and has an inspection frequency of every 5 years. Although the last inspection was conducted in 2013, the dam is maintained and monitored to mitigate any potential risks and ensure public safety.
The Little River Dam, with its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment, stands as a vital structure for recreational activities in the area. Its presence not only provides a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts but also highlights the importance of proper maintenance and regulation to prevent any potential hazards associated with dam structures.
Dam Length |
75 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Stone |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
27.9 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Little River Dam
South River Street, Haverhill