Breeds Pond Dike #8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Breeds Pond Dike #8, located in Lynn, Massachusetts, was completed in 1914 and serves as a crucial water supply structure for the area.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 230 feet, providing a storage capacity of 4000 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 3400 acre-feet and a surface area of 192 acres.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Breeds Pond Dike #8 is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition. With a high hazard potential and risk assessment rating, the dam is deemed essential for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam plays a critical role in managing the Moore's Brook tributary of the Saugus River and protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events.

Despite its age, Breeds Pond Dike #8 remains a vital infrastructure asset for water supply security in Essex County, Massachusetts. With its high-risk profile and emergency action plan in place, the dam serves as a key component in the state's water management strategy. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and oversight of structures like Breeds Pond Dike #8 are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of the local population and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

MOORE'S BROOK TRIBUTARY OF SAUGUS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

192

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.95

Nid Storage

4000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.