Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Located in Bourne, Massachusetts, Mill Pond Dam is a local government-owned structure that serves as both a recreational area and a crucial component of the water resource management system.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 13 feet with a hydraulic height of 11 feet, holds a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.83 acres. The dam is situated on the Back River and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts.
While the dam is classified as having a fair condition assessment, it poses a significant hazard potential, prompting a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection in 2016 found the structure to be in fair condition, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan prepared. With a history of operations without federal agency involvement, Mill Pond Dam remains a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure in Barnstable County, Massachusetts.
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
BACK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.83 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
6.95 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Mill Pond Dam
Craven's Landing