Great Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Great Pond Dam in Braintree, Massachusetts, is a vital water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 2000 feet along Noroway Brook. It has a storage capacity of 2227 acre-feet, serving the community with a normal storage capacity of 2122 acre-feet.

Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, Great Pond Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of August 2020. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with emergency action plans last revised in 2008.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Great Pond Dam presents an interesting case study in sustainable water management within the Norfolk County region. With a focus on water supply purposes, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining a reliable water source for the local community while also being subject to regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

NORROWAY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

206

Drainage Area

6.16

Nid Storage

2227

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.