Weld Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Weld Pond Dam, located in Dedham, Massachusetts, is a masonry dam built in 1900 with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 17 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles. It is situated on a tributary of the Charles River and is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts.

Despite being categorized as a low hazard potential structure with a satisfactory condition assessment, Weld Pond Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and has not been inspected since June 2011, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared for the dam, raising concerns about emergency preparedness and risk management measures.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Weld Pond Dam may find its historical significance and recreational value appealing. The dam provides opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic views, but its moderate risk assessment and lack of recent inspections highlight the importance of ensuring the safety and maintenance of this water infrastructure for the surrounding community and the environment.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

77

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF CHARLES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

180

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.