Rumford River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Rumford River Dam, located in Norton, Massachusetts, is a significant water supply structure on the Rumford River.
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Summary
Owned privately, this masonry dam stands at a height of 9 feet, with a hydraulic height of 3.65 feet and a length of 230 feet. With a primary purpose of water supply, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 6 acre-feet and a drainage area of 20.3 square miles.
Despite its importance for water supply, the dam is currently in poor condition and has a significant hazard potential, according to a 2012 assessment. It is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, and inspections are conducted every 5 years. The dam's spillway type is listed as uncontrolled, and it has a surface area of 1.5 acres.
Given its moderate risk assessment rating, the Rumford River Dam requires attention to ensure its structural integrity and continued functionality for water supply purposes. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find interest in monitoring the dam's condition and any potential risk management measures implemented in the future to safeguard the surrounding area from potential hazards.
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
RUMFORD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
3.65 |
Drainage Area |
20.3 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Rumford River Dam
Norton Reservoir Launch