Russell Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Store Pond Dam Foundry Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Russell Pond Dam, located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 9.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 7.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 43.7 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 5.9 acres. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure public safety.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 0 feet, raising concerns about its ability to handle potential flooding events. The last inspection in May 2018 revealed a need for improvements, as the dam's condition was deemed poor. With a risk assessment rating of moderate and a hazard potential of significant, there is a growing need for risk management measures to be implemented to mitigate the dam's vulnerabilities and protect the surrounding community and environment from potential hazards.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the management and upkeep of Russell Pond Dam will be crucial in ensuring its long-term sustainability and functionality. With its location in a sensitive ecological area, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining water levels and providing recreational opportunities for the community. Efforts to improve the dam's condition, implement risk management measures, and enhance emergency preparedness will be essential in safeguarding this important water resource for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Dam Length |
80 |
Dam Height |
9.5 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
43.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Russell Pond Dam