Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Mill Pond Dam in West Newbury, Massachusetts, is a concrete buttress dam completed in 1996 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at 8 feet high with a hydraulic height of 6 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with inspections conducted every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity.

The dam's spillway is controlled, and its condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in May 2014. However, it is classified as having a significant hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating. The dam is situated on Mill Brook, downstream of Indian River, and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities. Despite its risk potential, the dam has been maintained in a satisfactory condition, making it a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Mill Pond Dam's location in Essex County, Massachusetts, provides a serene setting for visitors to enjoy the 19.6-acre reservoir it creates. With its close proximity to recreational areas and the potential for outdoor activities like fishing and boating, the dam serves as a valuable resource for the community. While its risk potential is a concern, ongoing state regulation and regular inspections help ensure the safety and longevity of this important water structure for both residents and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

MILL BROOK. DOWNSTREAM IS INDIAN RIVER.

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

19.6

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.