South Middleton Dam

IPSWICH RIVER· Essex, Massachusetts· Built 1953· Concrete· 10 ft tall
Significant Hazard Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Private

Key Takeaway

South Middleton Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 10 ft (taller than 18% in MA)
Dam Length110 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage63 acre-ft
Normal Storage39 acre-ft
Surface Area10 acres
Drainage Area44 sq mi
Year Completed1953 (73 years old)
NID IDMA01137

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 13, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

BOSTIK, INC.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of South Middleton Dam?

South Middleton 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 South Middleton Dam?

South Middleton Dam is owned by BOSTIK, INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was South Middleton Dam built?

South Middleton Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 South Middleton Dam?

South Middleton Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is South Middleton Dam?

South Middleton 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 South Middleton Dam last inspected?

South Middleton Dam was last inspected on December 13, 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.