Sunset Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cocassett Lake Dam Carpenter Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Sunset Lake Dam, located in Foxborough, Massachusetts, serves as a vital structure for maintaining the COCASSET RIVER ecosystem and supporting local fish and wildlife populations.
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Summary
Managed by the State Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is primarily used for creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond, as well as providing recreational opportunities for the community. With a height of 9.5 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 98 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and ensuring the sustainability of the surrounding environment.
Despite its significance, Sunset Lake Dam is currently facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as "Poor". The dam has a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to address any potential risks. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is also in need of updates to meet guidelines and ensure preparedness for any unforeseen events. Overall, while the dam's risk assessment is moderate, there is a need for proactive risk management measures to safeguard its structural integrity and the safety of the surrounding area.
In the face of these challenges, Sunset Lake Dam remains a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its strategic location and vital role in supporting biodiversity and recreational activities, it is essential for stakeholders to work together to address the dam's current condition and implement necessary risk management measures to ensure its long-term sustainability and effectiveness.
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
9.5 |
River Or Stream |
COCASSET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
98 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Sunset Lake Dam
Beach Street Sharon