Putmanville Reservoir South Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Putmanville Reservoir South Dike in Essex, Massachusetts, is a crucial water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Completed in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 6.5 feet and plays a vital role in ensuring a stable water supply for the region. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 1800 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 290 acres, serving as a key resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
With a high hazard potential due to its location and design, the dam is regularly inspected and has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2016. The Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts oversees the state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of the dam, ensuring its safety and functionality. Despite its high risk assessment, the reservoir continues to provide essential water storage for the community, highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure.
Located in Danvers and part of the Ipswich River tributary system, the Putmanville Reservoir South Dike underscores the intersection of water supply management, environmental conservation, and climate resilience. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the maintenance and upkeep of such critical infrastructure become even more vital to support sustainable water resource management practices and adaptation strategies in the face of evolving climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
6.5 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF IPSWICH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
290 |
Hydraulic Height |
2.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.81 |
Nid Storage |
1800 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
Putmanville Reservoir South Dike
Ipswich Road Topsfield