Breeds Pond Dike #12 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Breeds Pond Dike #12, located in Lynn, Massachusetts, serves as a critical structure for water supply purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1914, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5.3 feet. With a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the area. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2017.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Breeds Pond Dike #12 is situated along Moore's Brook, a tributary of the Saugus River. With a drainage area of 0.95 square miles and a surface area of 192 acres, this dam plays a significant role in regulating water flow and ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding areas. While the dam does not have a spillway, its construction and design cater to its primary purpose of water supply management.

Despite its age, Breeds Pond Dike #12 continues to be a vital structure for water resource management in Essex County, Massachusetts. With a risk assessment rating of 2 (high), the dam's condition and maintenance are closely monitored to ensure the safety and efficiency of its operations. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Breeds Pond Dike #12 play a crucial role in adapting to and mitigating the effects of changing weather patterns on water supply systems.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MOORE'S BROOK TRIBUTARY OF SAUGUS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

192

Hydraulic Height

5.3

Drainage Area

0.95

Nid Storage

2000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.