Cornell Lower Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Cornell Lower Pond Dam, located in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, is a locally owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, situated on the Copicut River, stands at a height of 8 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 85 acre-feet. However, its condition assessment is classified as poor, with a significant hazard potential, indicating the need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its safety and longevity.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in March 2017. Despite its current condition, the dam presents a moderate risk level, suggesting that proactive risk management measures may be necessary to address any potential issues.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and environmental conservation may find Cornell Lower Pond Dam a compelling case study for the importance of maintaining and managing dams to ensure public safety and preserve the surrounding ecosystem. Its location in a scenic area and its recreational use add an extra layer of significance to the ongoing efforts to safeguard this vital water resource.
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
COPICUT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
6.4 |
Drainage Area |
8.8 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Cornell Lower Pond Dam
Jefferson Saint Extension, Fall River