Amelia Earhart Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Amelia Earhart Dam, located in Somerville, Massachusetts, along the Mystic River, was completed in 1965 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at a height of 21.3 feet and has a NID storage capacity of 6645 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 31.5 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Amelia Earhart Dam is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and meets all state permitting, inspection, and enforcement guidelines. In addition to flood risk reduction, the dam also serves purposes such as navigation and recreation, contributing to the overall water resource management in the region. Ayanna Pressley (D) represents the area in Congress, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and safeguarding this critical infrastructure for the benefit of the community.
With a satisfactory condition assessment and a moderate risk rating, the Amelia Earhart Dam continues to play a significant role in water resource management in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. While it has a relatively low hazard potential, the dam's strategic location and design make it a key asset for flood control and environmental protection in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the vital role that structures like the Amelia Earhart Dam play in promoting water security and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
950 |
Dam Height |
21.3 |
River Or Stream |
MYSTIC RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Hydraulic Height |
21.3 |
Drainage Area |
31.5 |
Nid Storage |
6645 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Amelia Earhart Dam
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