Lynn Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Lynn Reservoir Dam, located in Lynn, Massachusetts, was completed in 1872 and serves as a crucial water supply structure for the area.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a hydraulic height of 9 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 74 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 62.6 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 1920 feet and encompasses a surface area of 4.7 acres, providing essential water resources for the region.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Lynn Reservoir Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, although its condition assessment remains satisfactory. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is equipped with emergency measures in case of potential inundation, highlighting the importance of proper risk management and preparedness for climate-related events.

Despite its age, the Lynn Reservoir Dam continues to play a vital role in water supply management for the Essex County area, emphasizing the significance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key water resource structure in the region, the dam's operations and regulatory oversight underscore the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding communities against potential hazards and ensuring reliable access to essential resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1872

Dam Length

1920

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SAUGUS RIVER OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.7

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

0.01

Nid Storage

74

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.