Falls Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Falls Pond Dam, located in North Attleborough, Massachusetts, is a crucial structure regulating the flow of the Ten Mile River.


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Summary

Built in 1890, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 1420 acre-feet. With a surface area of 111 acres and a drainage area of 8.3 square miles, this dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of safety measures at Falls Pond Dam, ensuring its satisfactory condition and high hazard potential are managed effectively. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose while meeting state permitting and inspection requirements. The presence of uncontrolled spillways and a moderate risk assessment rating highlight the importance of proactive risk management measures in place.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Falls Pond Dam serves as a fascinating example of historical infrastructure designed to support the local ecosystem and community. With Joseph P. Kennedy III as the congressional representative, the dam's significance in water management and conservation efforts cannot be understated. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and modernization of structures like Falls Pond Dam are crucial for ensuring the resilience of our natural environment.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TEN MILE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

111

Hydraulic Height

17.5

Drainage Area

8.3

Nid Storage

1420

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.