Bear Brook Dam

BEAR BROOK· Worcester, Massachusetts· Masonry· 8 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Local Government

Key Takeaway

Bear Brook Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 8 ft (taller than 6.7% in MA)
Dam Length140 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage2 acre-ft
Normal Storage1 acre-ft
Drainage Area0 sq mi
NID IDMA03330

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: June 6, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

CITY OF WORCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & PARKS

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bear Brook Dam?

Bear Brook 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 Bear Brook Dam?

Bear Brook Dam is owned by CITY OF WORCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & PARKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Bear Brook Dam?

Bear Brook Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bear Brook Dam?

Bear Brook Dam has a dam height of 8 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 Bear Brook Dam last inspected?

Bear Brook Dam was last inspected on June 6, 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.