Parker Mills Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Parker Mills Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 19 ft (taller than 67.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 415 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 990 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 105 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00150 |
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
A.D. Makepeace Company;Town of Wareham, Board of Selectmen
Private
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Low Hazard 14 ftRoute 25 #1 Dam
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High Hazard 16 ftMill Pond Dam
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High Hazard 17 ftTremont Mill Pond
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High Hazard 15 ftGlen Charles Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Parker Mills Pond Dam?
Parker Mills 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 Parker Mills Pond Dam?
Parker Mills Pond Dam is owned by A.D. Makepeace Company;Town of Wareham, Board of Selectmen (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Parker Mills Pond Dam built?
Parker Mills Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Parker Mills Pond Dam?
Parker 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 Parker Mills Pond Dam?
Parker Mills Pond Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Parker Mills Pond Dam last inspected?
Parker Mills Pond Dam was last inspected on March 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.