Damon Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Damon Pond Dam in Massachusetts is a state-owned structure built in 1938 for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It stands at a height of 29 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet, with a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Willard Brook in Ashby, Middlesex County, and serves as a recreational area with a surface area of 3.5 acres.
Despite its essential role in providing habitat for fish and wildlife, the dam's condition assessment is poor, with a high hazard potential. It is categorized as a moderate risk structure, with the last inspection conducted in June 2019. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, raising concerns about its ability to handle potential flooding events. The Department of Conservation and Recreation is the state regulatory agency responsible for its oversight.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Damon Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of how aging infrastructure can impact environmental conservation efforts. With its outdated design and maintenance issues, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the preservation of the ecosystem. The involvement of state agencies in permitting, inspection, and enforcement highlights the complex interplay between regulatory frameworks and the management of critical water resources.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
215 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
WILLARD BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
3.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
5.7 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Damon Pond Dam