Fosters Pond Dam

FRYE'S BROOK TO SHAWSHEEN RIVER· Essex, Massachusetts· Earth· 10 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Fosters 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 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA)
Dam Length150 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage867 acre-ft
Normal Storage538 acre-ft
Surface Area0 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
NID IDMA00153

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: December 6, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

FOSTER'S POND CORPORATION

Private

Nearby Dams

Ballardvale Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 14 ft

Brackett Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 13 ft

Collins Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 13 ft

Field Pond Dike

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 10 ft

Field Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 13 ft

Haggetts Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Significant Hazard 6 ft

Salem Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Low Hazard 12 ft

Farnums Mill Pond Dam

Essex, MA

Low Hazard 14 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fosters Pond Dam?

Fosters 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 Fosters Pond Dam?

Fosters Pond Dam is owned by FOSTER'S POND CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Fosters Pond Dam?

Fosters 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 Fosters Pond Dam?

Fosters Pond Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Fosters Pond Dam last inspected?

Fosters Pond Dam was last inspected on December 6, 2016. 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.