Swansea Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Milford Pond Dam Montaup #3 Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Swansea Reservoir Dam, located in Swansea, Massachusetts, was completed in 1883 and serves as a multifunctional structure for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 460 acre-feet and a surface area of 84 acres. The dam is primarily a rockfill type with a gravity component, designed to control the flow of the Kickamuit River.
Although the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, its condition assessment is rated as poor, with a hazard potential classified as low and a moderate risk level. The last inspection took place in July 2015, with a frequency of every 10 years. Despite its condition, the dam continues to provide essential functions and recreational opportunities for the community, albeit with ongoing monitoring and maintenance needs to ensure its long-term safety and effectiveness. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Swansea Reservoir Dam represents a historical and vital piece of infrastructure that requires attention to maintain its integrity and functionality in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1883 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
KICKAMUIT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
84 |
Hydraulic Height |
11.5 |
Drainage Area |
5.1 |
Nid Storage |
460 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Swansea Reservoir Dam
Walker Farm