Forge Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Forge Pond Dam, located in Canton, Massachusetts, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1949, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 11.2 feet, with a hydraulic height of 13 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 28.8 acres, providing ample space for outdoor activities and water-based recreation.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Forge Pond Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's condition assessment in 2017 deemed it satisfactory, with a significant hazard potential. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam's risk management measures are currently unlisted, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential threats and ensure the safety of the surrounding area.

With its picturesque location on the Canton River, Forge Pond Dam offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature while engaging in recreational pursuits. As a key asset for the local government, the dam plays a crucial role in providing residents with a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor activities, highlighting its significance as a valuable resource in the region.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

40

Dam Height

11.2

River Or Stream

CANTON RIVER AKA EAST BRANCH OF NEPONSET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

28.8

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

27.2

Nid Storage

160

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.