Holmes Playground Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Holmes Playground Dam, located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a key structure on Town Brook, serving primarily recreational purposes since its completion in 1900.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12.6 feet, with a length of 275 feet and a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2016, the dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Holmes Playground Dam is under state regulation with permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it poses a moderate risk level according to the risk assessment conducted. The surrounding area has a surface area of 4.6 acres and a drainage area of 8.6 acres, making it a crucial site for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates to monitor and protect to ensure community safety and environmental sustainability in the region.
With its historical significance dating back over a century, Holmes Playground Dam serves as a vital component of the local landscape. As a buttress earth dam, it is essential for flood control and recreation in the area. By staying informed about its condition, risk assessment, and emergency action plan preparedness, water resource and climate enthusiasts can play a role in safeguarding this important structure for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TOWN BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.6 |
Drainage Area |
8.6 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Holmes Playground Dam