Carpenter Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Carpenter Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1888 and is 138 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 88.6% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 82 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1888 (138 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00893 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
WHITINSVILLE WATER COMPANY
Private
Nearby Dams
Fish Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 9 ftSwans Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 12 ftCarpenter Reservoir Dike
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 28 ftUpper Meadow Pond Dam/Dike
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 15 ftLackey Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 16 ftReservoir #4 Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 30 ftLower Meadow Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 16 ftRiley Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 5 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Carpenter Reservoir Dam?
Carpenter Reservoir 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 Carpenter Reservoir Dam?
Carpenter Reservoir Dam is owned by WHITINSVILLE WATER COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Carpenter Reservoir Dam built?
Carpenter Reservoir Dam was completed in 1888, making it 138 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 Carpenter Reservoir Dam?
Carpenter Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Carpenter Reservoir Dam?
Carpenter Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Carpenter Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Carpenter Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 8, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.