Bolivar Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Bolivar Pond Dam, located in Canton, Massachusetts, is a significant structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 2006, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 meters with a hydraulic height of 12.7 meters. It serves a primary purpose of "Other" and boasts a storage capacity of 191 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 120 acre-feet. The dam is associated with Steep Hill Brook, Beaver Meadow Brook, and Massapoag Brook, highlighting its importance in managing water resources in the region.

With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2015, Bolivar Pond Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water supply reliability in the area. Its spillway type is uncontrolled, signaling the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity. The dam's risk assessment is classified as moderate, indicating the necessity for ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and environment.

Representing a collaboration between local government entities and state regulatory agencies, Bolivar Pond Dam stands as a testament to the vital role of infrastructure in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, this dam underscores the importance of proactive risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and ongoing maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Norfolk County, Massachusetts.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

STEEP HILL BROOK, BEAVER MEADOW BROOK, MASSAPOAG BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

12.7

Drainage Area

9.9

Nid Storage

191

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.