Trowel Shop Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Located in Sharon, Massachusetts, Trowel Shop Pond Dam is a gravity dam on the Massapuag Brook, completed in 1940 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 6 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and serves as a low hazard potential structure. The dam is owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Trowel Shop Pond Dam is in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2008. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, posing a high risk in the event of a breach or overflow. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are yet to be implemented, highlighting the need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure public safety and protection of the surrounding environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and advocate for the rehabilitation of Trowel Shop Pond Dam. By addressing its structural deficiencies and implementing proper emergency protocols, this dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while mitigating potential risks associated with its aging infrastructure. Let's work together to safeguard this important water resource for future generations.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

MASSAPUAG BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

6

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.