Bethune Pond Dam

TRIBUTARY TO IPSWICH RIVER· Essex, Massachusetts· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Bethune Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 48.8% in MA)
Dam Length130 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage68 acre-ft
Normal Storage11 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
NID IDMA01613

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 31, 2012
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

145 SALEM ROAD REALTY TRUST

Private

Nearby Dams

Putnamville Reservoir Dam

Essex, MA

High Hazard 37 ft

Putnamville Reservoir East Dike

Essex, MA

High Hazard 24 ft

Putnamville Reservoir West Dike

Essex, MA

High Hazard 26 ft

Putmanville Reservoir South Dike

Essex, MA

High Hazard 7 ft

Mile Brook Dam

Essex, MA

Low Hazard 10 ft

Meadow Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 7 ft

Mill Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 17 ft

Mill Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 10 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bethune Pond Dam?

Bethune Pond Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Bethune Pond Dam?

Bethune Pond Dam is owned by 145 SALEM ROAD REALTY TRUST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Bethune Pond Dam?

Bethune Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bethune Pond Dam?

Bethune Pond Dam has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Bethune Pond Dam last inspected?

Bethune Pond Dam was last inspected on May 31, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.