Old Grist Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Located in Seekonk, Massachusetts, the Old Grist Mill Pond Dam stands as a historic structure completed in 1745.


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Summary

This rockfill dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate. The dam boasts a height of 12 feet and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, with a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.8 acres.

Managed by a private owner, the Old Grist Mill Pond Dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in March 2016. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is situated along the RUNNINS RIVER, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities.

With a drainage area of 6.17 square miles, the Old Grist Mill Pond Dam offers a glimpse into the rich history and engineering of water resource management in New England. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and maintenance of such structures become crucial for ensuring safety and sustainability in the region.

Year Completed

1745

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

RUNNINS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

4.8

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

6.17

Nid Storage

20

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.