Russell Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Winning Pond Dam Talbot Mills Dam
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Russell Mill Pond Dam, located in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, is a significant structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1954, this concrete dam stands at a height of 18 feet, with a hydraulic height of 16 feet, and a length of 120 feet. It has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 24 acres, drawing from a drainage area of 10 acres from the Pond Brook.
Managed by a private owner, the dam is state-regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with inspections carried out periodically and enforcement measures in place. While the hazard potential is considered significant, the condition of the dam was assessed as satisfactory as of May 2014. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are not explicitly outlined in the available data.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Russell Mill Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in recreational dam infrastructure. Its historical significance, design features, and management aspects offer valuable insights into the intersection of water management, regulatory oversight, and risk assessment in the context of a privately owned dam structure. Further research and analysis could provide a deeper understanding of the dam's role in the local ecosystem and its resilience to changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
POND BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Russell Mill Pond Dam
Farm Road, Billerica