Old Grist Mill Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Old Grist Mill Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1745 and is 281 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.1% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 100 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 15 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1745 (281 years old) |
| NID ID | MA02218 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
OLD GRIST MILL TAVERN
Private
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Old Grist Mill Pond Dam?
Old Grist Mill Pond Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Old Grist Mill Pond Dam?
Old Grist Mill Pond Dam is owned by OLD GRIST MILL TAVERN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Old Grist Mill Pond Dam built?
Old Grist Mill Pond Dam was completed in 1745, making it 281 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 Old Grist Mill Pond Dam?
Old Grist Mill 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 Old Grist Mill Pond Dam?
Old Grist Mill Pond Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Old Grist Mill Pond Dam last inspected?
Old Grist Mill Pond Dam was last inspected on March 16, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.