Butterfield Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Butterfield Pond Dam, located in Lexington, Massachusetts, is a significant earth dam with a height of 22 feet and a hydraulic height of 20 feet.
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Summary
Completed in 1938, this dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, providing a storage capacity of 196 acre-feet and a normal storage of 26 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Vine Brook, has a surface area of 2.9 acres and drains an area of 1.38 square miles.
Managed by the local government, Butterfield Pond Dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2014, the dam poses moderate risks that are being monitored and managed. Despite its age, the dam remains in good operational condition and continues to support recreational activities in the area.
Overall, Butterfield Pond Dam is a vital structure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in water resource management. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a key asset in the conservation and utilization of water resources in Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
VINE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1.38 |
Nid Storage |
196 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Butterfield Pond Dam
Pond Lane Arlington