Harvard Pond Dam

EAST BRANCH FEVER BROOK· Worcester, Massachusetts· Earth· 8 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Harvard Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Length160 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage410 acre-ft
Normal Storage280 acre-ft
Surface Area86 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
NID IDMA00654

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 2, 2013
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

PRESIDENT & FELLOWS OF HARVARD COLLEGE - HARVARD FOREST

Private

Nearby Dams

Gavco Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 22 ft

Riceville Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 13 ft

Davenport Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 7 ft

Brown Pond

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 19 ft

South Athol Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 11 ft

Connor Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 11 ft

Carter Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 10 ft

Ward Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 4 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Harvard Pond Dam?

Harvard Pond 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 Harvard Pond Dam?

Harvard Pond Dam is owned by PRESIDENT & FELLOWS OF HARVARD COLLEGE - HARVARD FOREST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Harvard Pond Dam?

Harvard 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 Harvard Pond Dam?

Harvard Pond 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 Harvard Pond Dam last inspected?

Harvard Pond Dam was last inspected on December 2, 2013. 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.