South Reservoir East Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
South Reservoir East Dike, located in Medford, Massachusetts, was completed in 1882 and serves as an essential water supply structure for the region.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam is classified as an Earth type with a height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 12.4 feet, storing a maximum of 1212 acre-feet of water. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition and has a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections and a risk assessment rating of 2.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, South Reservoir East Dike is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure its safety and functionality. With a surface area of 72 acres and a drainage area of 0.78 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water supply for the surrounding communities. The high risk associated with the dam emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is periodically reviewed and updated to meet safety guidelines. With a high hazard potential, the EAP is crucial in outlining emergency procedures and contacts to protect downstream areas in case of a breach. Despite the risks involved, South Reservoir East Dike stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, highlighting the intersection of water supply, climate resilience, and dam safety in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1882 |
Dam Length |
145 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
N/A |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
72 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.78 |
Nid Storage |
1212 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
South Reservoir East Dike
Pond Lane Arlington