Fernwood Lake East Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, Fernwood Lake East Dam is a critical structure regulating the Upper Banjo Pond.


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Summary

Built in 1877 by local government authorities, this earth dam stands at a height of 5 feet, with a length of 120 feet and a storage capacity of 330 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam serves as a vital resource for water activities in the area, offering a surface area of 28 acres for enjoyment.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Fernwood Lake East Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as in poor condition. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, with state-mandated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure public safety. Due to its high risk profile, the dam is under close monitoring and has an emergency action plan in place to address any potential threats or failures.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the beauty of Fernwood Lake East Dam and its surrounding area, it is crucial to appreciate the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate risks associated with its aging infrastructure. With its rich history and significant role in providing recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human interaction with natural water resources and the need for sustainable management practices to ensure safety and environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1877

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

5

River Or Stream

UPPER BANJO POND

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

0.46

Nid Storage

330

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

5
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.