Kendall Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Kendall Mill Dam, located in Walpole, Massachusetts, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This concrete dam, with a height of 7.7 feet and primarily used for fire protection and as a small fish pond, poses a significant hazard potential with a fair condition assessment. The dam has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 10 acres along the Neponset River.

Despite its relatively small size, Kendall Mill Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and recreational activities in the area. With a moderate risk assessment rating, regular inspections are conducted to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has a spillway width of 0 feet, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to prevent potential risks associated with uncontrolled water discharge.

The location of Kendall Mill Dam and its association with the Neponset River make it a vital part of the local ecosystem and water resource management. With its unique design and purpose, the dam serves as a key component in the conservation and regulation efforts in Norfolk County, Massachusetts. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Kendall Mill Dam to be an intriguing example of how human-made structures can impact and interact with natural water systems.

Dam Length

35

Dam Height

7.7

River Or Stream

NEPONSET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

6.4

Hydraulic Height

5.2

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.