Shad Factory Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Shad Factory Pond Dam, located in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, is a rockfill dam built in 1911 for the primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 15.3 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, with a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet. Situated on the Palmer River, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for ensuring water availability in the region.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Shad Factory Pond Dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2012, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the area. Despite being uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a moderate risk assessment (3) and is subject to a 5-year inspection frequency to mitigate any potential risks.
As a vital component of the water supply system, Shad Factory Pond Dam serves as a key resource for climate enthusiasts and water resource managers alike. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining infrastructure to ensure sustainable water management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
15.3 |
River Or Stream |
PALMER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
26.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
26.8 |
Nid Storage |
420 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Shad Factory Pond Dam
Walker Farm