Old Water Supply Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Old Water Supply Dam, located in Bedford, Massachusetts, is a significant earth dam providing recreation opportunities in the area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 2013, this dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 13.3 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts and is inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity.
The dam, built on a tributary of Shawsheen River, serves as a vital water resource for the local community while also offering recreational activities for enthusiasts. With a spillway type of uncontrolled and a spillway width of 0 feet, the dam poses a significant hazard potential, although its condition as of the last assessment in 2013 was deemed satisfactory. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure public safety and the preservation of the surrounding environment.
Overall, Old Water Supply Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations in the region. With its key role in providing both water supply and recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a focal point for conservation efforts and sustainable development in the area. By maintaining a balance between safety, functionality, and environmental stewardship, this dam continues to play a crucial role in the local ecosystem and community.
Year Completed |
2013 |
Dam Length |
155 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF SHAWSHEEN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
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.
Old Water Supply Dam
Farm Road, Billerica