New Bedford Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, the New Bedford Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in irrigation and recreation, serving as a primary source of water for the Acushnet River.
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Summary
Built in 1867, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 2265 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource for the surrounding area. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment, the dam poses a significant hazard potential, prompting regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the New Bedford Reservoir Dam is state-regulated and inspected to meet permitting and enforcement requirements. With a surface area of 217.6 acres and a drainage area of 7.2 square miles, this dam not only provides water for irrigation but also offers recreational opportunities for the local community. Although it has an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's moderate risk assessment (rated 3 out of 5) suggests the need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure public safety.
In the picturesque town of Acushnet, the New Bedford Reservoir Dam stands as a historical landmark that continues to play a vital role in water resource management. With its strategic location on the Acushnet River, this dam not only supports agricultural activities but also provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor recreation. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of this dam become increasingly important to ensure sustainable water supply and environmental preservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1867 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
ACUSHNET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
217.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
7.2 |
Nid Storage |
2265 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
New Bedford Reservoir Dam
Pease Street 99, Fairhaven