Fells Reservoir Dam - #8 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Fells Reservoir Dam - #8 in Stoneham, Massachusetts, completed in 2010, serves as a crucial water supply structure with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 48 feet, with a hydraulic height of 45 feet and a length of 850 feet, ensuring a reliable water source for the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections and enforcement by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, this dam plays a vital role in water resource management, with a primary purpose of water supply. The surrounding area covers 14 acres with a drainage area of 0.04 square miles. The dam's risk assessment indicates a high risk level, prompting the need for effective risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With Katherine M. Clark as the representative, the dam is under state jurisdiction and regulation, highlighting the collaborative efforts to uphold its functionality and safety standards.
Fells Reservoir Dam - #8 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in combating climate change and ensuring water security for communities. With its strategic location and state ownership, the dam serves as a key asset in water management, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address potential risks and maintain its critical role in the region's water supply system. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam showcases the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
2010 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
N/A |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
0.04 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
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