Middle Pond Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Middle Pond Dam #1 in Bristol County, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this Earth dam serves the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing recreational opportunities in the area. With a height of 18.5 feet and a storage capacity of 380 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Middle Pond Dam #1 continues to be inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in February 2018. The dam poses a very high risk, with emergency action plans yet to be prepared and implemented. With a controlled spillway and a drainage area of 1.47 square miles, the dam is a key infrastructure for flood control and water management on Thompson Brook.

Located in Taunton, Massachusetts, Middle Pond Dam #1 is a vital component of the state's water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and maintenance of dams like Middle Pond Dam #1 is crucial for the protection of the surrounding communities and ecosystems. The ongoing management and regulation of this structure by state authorities are essential to mitigate risks and enhance the resilience of the region's water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

18.5

River Or Stream

THOMPSON BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28.5

Hydraulic Height

16.5

Drainage Area

1.47

Nid Storage

380

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.