Box Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Box Pond Dam, situated in Bellingham, Massachusetts, serves as a recreational spot along the Charles River.


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Summary

Built in 1800, this concrete dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a storage capacity of 149 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk level.

Owned privately and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Box Pond Dam is inspected every 10 years with the last assessment conducted in 2009. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam caters to water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities in Norfolk County. Its location near the city provides a serene escape for visitors looking to experience the beauty of the Charles River.

Although Box Pond Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition and risk level, efforts to improve its safety and longevity are underway. As a significant part of the local landscape and recreational infrastructure, the dam continues to be a popular destination for those looking to explore the natural wonders of Massachusetts while also highlighting the importance of maintaining water resources in the face of changing climates.

Year Completed

1800

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

CHARLES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

5.5

Drainage Area

14.73

Nid Storage

149

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.