Willett Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Willett Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 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 | 25 ft (taller than 79.2% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 240 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1913 (113 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00169 |
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
Neponset River Land Holding Association, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 11 ftTurner Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Willett Pond Dam?
Willett 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 Willett Pond Dam?
Willett Pond Dam is owned by Neponset River Land Holding Association, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Willett Pond Dam built?
Willett Pond Dam was completed in 1913, making it 113 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 Willett Pond Dam?
Willett 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 Willett Pond Dam?
Willett Pond Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Willett Pond Dam last inspected?
Willett Pond Dam was last inspected on June 5, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.