Paintshop Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Paintshop Pond Dam stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of Waban Brook.
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Summary
This private dam, constructed in 1900, primarily serves recreational purposes, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. With a dam height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet, the dam boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding area.
Under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Paintshop Pond Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement. The dam, classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type, features an uncontrolled spillway and has a drainage area of 8.9 square miles. While the dam's last inspection took place in 2009, its moderate risk level (3 out of 5) suggests a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the community and environment from potential hazards.
With its picturesque setting and important role in water resource management, Paintshop Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human activity and natural ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Paintshop Pond Dam is crucial for promoting sustainability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
75 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
WABAN BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
8.9 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Paintshop Pond Dam
College Road Wellesley