South Middleton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

The South Middleton Dam, located in Middleton, Massachusetts, is a private concrete dam built in 1953 for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

It sits on the Ipswich River with a drainage area of 43.8 square miles and a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. The dam has a height of 10 feet and a hydraulic height of 8.5 feet, with a spillway type of uncontrolled.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the South Middleton Dam has a significant hazard potential and was last inspected in December 2016, with a fair condition assessment. The dam has a moderate risk rating and an inspection frequency of 5 years. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purposes effectively while ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the unique features of the South Middleton Dam, such as its gravity design, buttress core type, and the presence of an uncontrolled spillway. With a history of providing vital functions for the local community, this dam represents a blend of practicality and environmental stewardship. Its location on the Ipswich River adds to its significance as a key piece of infrastructure in Essex County, Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

110

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

IPSWICH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

8.5

Drainage Area

43.8

Nid Storage

63

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.