Snake Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: February 22, 2026

Snake Brook Dam, located in Wayland, Massachusetts, is a rockfill dam built in 1878 primarily for the purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


Summary

The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, with a maximum storage of 55 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and is subject to state inspections and enforcement measures.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition according to a 2017 assessment. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and is associated with the Snake Brook river. With a drainage area of 0.6 square miles and a surface area of 12 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and supporting fish and wildlife in the area.

Overall, Snake Brook Dam serves as an important structure in the region, not only for its role in water resource management but also for the conservation of wildlife and provision of recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is vital to ensure the integrity and safety of dams like Snake Brook to mitigate potential risks and adapt to changing environmental conditions.



°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SNAKE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.