Ames Pond Dike B Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Ames Pond Dike B is a privately-owned structure located in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, along Meadow Brook.


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Summary

This earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a surface area of 80 acres. The dam stands at 11 feet high with a hydraulic height of 9 feet, providing essential flood protection and water storage for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the Ames Pond Dike B has a significant hazard potential due to its location and condition. Despite this, the dam's latest inspection in October 2017 reported a satisfactory condition assessment and a high-risk level of 2 out of 4. Regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure, with emergency action plans in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and support the maintenance of structures like Ames Pond Dike B to safeguard the community and environment from potential hazards. With its vital role in flood control and water storage, the dam plays a crucial part in the local ecosystem and recreational activities. By staying informed and advocating for proper management and inspection protocols, we can help ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this essential water resource infrastructure.

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

MEADOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

600

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.