Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1876 and is 150 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 | 61 ft (taller than 97.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 129 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1876 (150 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00990 |
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
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High Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam?
Lynde Brook 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 Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam?
Lynde Brook 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 Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam built?
Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam was completed in 1876, making it 150 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 Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam?
Lynde Brook 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 Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam?
Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 61 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 Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 7, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.