Nelson Mills Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Nelson Mills Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 82.9% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 175 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 406 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 179 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00050 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
ROSALIND G. & NATHAN TUFTS, JR.
Private
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Significant Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nelson Mills Pond Dam?
Nelson Mills 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 Nelson Mills Pond Dam?
Nelson Mills Pond Dam is owned by ROSALIND G. & NATHAN TUFTS, JR. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nelson Mills Pond Dam built?
Nelson Mills Pond Dam was completed in 1937, making it 89 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Nelson Mills Pond Dam?
Nelson Mills 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 Nelson Mills Pond Dam?
Nelson Mills Pond Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Nelson Mills Pond Dam last inspected?
Nelson Mills Pond Dam was last inspected on December 4, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.