Lower Merino Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Merino Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1855 and is 171 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 | 22 ft (taller than 73.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 340 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 77 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1855 (171 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00109 |
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
TOWN OF DUDLEY, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Merino Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 20 ftPeter Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftLarner Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 20 ftNorth Village Pond
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 13 ftStocking Mill Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 8 ftWallis Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 8 ftCarpenter Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 8 ftPerryville Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Merino Pond Dam?
Lower Merino 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 Lower Merino Pond Dam?
Lower Merino Pond Dam is owned by TOWN OF DUDLEY, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Merino Pond Dam built?
Lower Merino Pond Dam was completed in 1855, making it 171 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 Lower Merino Pond Dam?
Lower Merino 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 Lower Merino Pond Dam?
Lower Merino Pond Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Lower Merino Pond Dam last inspected?
Lower Merino Pond Dam was last inspected on November 30, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.