Scalley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Scalley Dam, located in Woburn, Massachusetts, serves as a vital water supply source in the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 14.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 1508 acre-feet. It primarily regulates the flow of three inflowing streams - Sucker's Brook, Town Meadow Brook, and Fowle Brook.

Managed by the local government, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. The dam's condition is rated as fair with significant hazard potential, prompting regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Scalley Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in sustaining water supply and managing natural resources effectively. Its role in regulating water flow and storage capacity highlights the critical need for consistent monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure long-term sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

SUCKER'S BROOK, TOWN MEADOWN BROOK, FOWLE BROOK - INFLOW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

103

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

9.36

Nid Storage

1508

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.