Kendall Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Kendall Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1911 and is 115 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 39 ft (taller than 92.1% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,120 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 180 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1911 (115 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00622 |
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
CITY OF WORCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & PARKS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Eagle Lake Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 20 ftPine Hill Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 70 ftKendall Reservoir Lower Basin Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 8 ftStreeter Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 12 ftAsnebumskit Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 11 ftMaple Spring Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 11 ftQuinapoxet Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 45 ftDawson Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kendall Reservoir Dam?
Kendall Reservoir 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 Kendall Reservoir Dam?
Kendall Reservoir 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.
When was Kendall Reservoir Dam built?
Kendall Reservoir Dam was completed in 1911, making it 115 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 Kendall Reservoir Dam?
Kendall 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 Kendall Reservoir Dam?
Kendall Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 39 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 Kendall Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Kendall Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 29, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.