Norton Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Norton Reservoir Dam, located in Norton, Massachusetts, is a rockfill dam built on the Rumford River with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 16.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, provides crucial protection to the surrounding area while also offering recreational opportunities. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is state-regulated with regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition.
With a storage capacity of 6,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 560 acres, Norton Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. While the dam has a high hazard potential, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a balanced approach to risk management. The dam also serves as a habitat for wildlife and a scenic destination for visitors, highlighting the importance of balancing flood protection with environmental conservation and recreation.
As a key infrastructure for flood risk reduction and water resource management, Norton Reservoir Dam showcases the intersection of engineering, climate resilience, and ecological stewardship. With ongoing inspections and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam continues to fulfill its essential role in safeguarding the community from potential flooding events while also providing a recreational space for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
16.5 |
River Or Stream |
RUMFORD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
560 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
19.6 |
Nid Storage |
6000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Norton Reservoir Dam
Norton Reservoir Launch