Mother Brook Diversion At Charles River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Located in Dedham, Massachusetts, the Mother Brook Diversion at Charles River is a critical infrastructure designed to reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1959, this concrete dam stands at a height of 15.55 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The structure spans 280 feet in length and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Despite its importance in mitigating flood risks, the Mother Brook Diversion is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The dam has a moderate risk rating and is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The structure's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently under review, highlighting the importance of maintaining and upgrading this key water resource infrastructure to protect the surrounding community and environment.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

15.55

River Or Stream

MOTHER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

5.6

Drainage Area

217

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.