Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
The Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam, located in Boston, Massachusetts, was completed in 1898 and serves as a critical component of the water supply infrastructure in the area.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 18.5 feet, has a primary purpose of water supply and is owned and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. With a normal storage capacity of 970 acre-feet and a total storage of 1270 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its age, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam is in satisfactory condition according to a 2016 assessment, with a high hazard potential given its location and purpose. The dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years and does not have a spillway. With a drainage area of 0.22 square miles, the dam is designed to withstand high risk factors, although it is subject to biennial inspections to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly reviewed and updated to meet guidelines and mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.
In the event of an emergency, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam has emergency contacts prepared and is equipped to handle any potential risks or incidents that may arise. With a high risk assessment score of 2, the dam's risk management measures are continuously evaluated to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the water supply system. As a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Boston.
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
18.5 |
River Or Stream |
OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
84 |
Hydraulic Height |
18.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
1270 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
YMCA Camp
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Spang Camp Site
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Ponkapoag Camp of Appalachian Mountain Club
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Missionary Point
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Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam
Reid Rotary Cambridgeport