Elginwood Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Elginwood Pond Dam, located in Peabody, Massachusetts, is a vital structure regulating the flow of Norris Brook.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. Standing at a height of 7 feet with a hydraulic height of 5.5 feet, this earth dam with buttress core types spans 150 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet.

Despite its importance, Elginwood Pond Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in May 2018 revealed the need for maintenance and potential risks associated with its structural integrity. Although the risk is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date unknown, it is essential for the dam's management to implement measures to ensure its long-term stability and safety.

Despite being regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and undergoing state inspections and enforcement, Elginwood Pond Dam requires immediate attention to improve its condition and reduce the potential risks it poses. As a crucial piece of infrastructure for the community and a popular recreational spot, it is imperative to address the dam's current state and take necessary steps to enhance its safety and longevity for future generations to enjoy.

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

NORRIS BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.1

Hydraulic Height

5.5

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

54

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.