Upper Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nye Pond Dam Upper Shawme Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
The Upper Reservoir Dam in Sandwich, Massachusetts, serves as a vital water resource for fish and wildlife pond purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet with a hydraulic height of 4 feet, providing a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 2 acres. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.
Located in the Barnstable County of Massachusetts, the Upper Reservoir Dam is designed as a buttress earth dam with uncontrolled spillway type. With a drainage area of 0.42 square miles, this dam contributes to the local ecosystem by providing a habitat for various wildlife species. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans to address any potential hazards and protect the surrounding area in the event of an emergency.
Managed by the state and meeting state permitting and inspection requirements, the Upper Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management. With a focus on conservation and recreation, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area while providing recreational opportunities for the community to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Height |
7 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.42 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Upper Reservoir Dam
Craven's Landing