Overlook Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Overlook Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1872 and is 154 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 | 41 ft (taller than 93% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 430 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 146 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 131 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1872 (154 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00876 |
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 Fitchburg, Office of the Mayor'
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Overlook Reservoir Dike
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 22 ftGreenes Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 13 ftFalulah Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 20 ftScott Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 40 ftMill Pond #1 Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 14 ftLovell Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 84 ftLovell Reservoir Dike
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 27 ftMctaggarts Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Overlook Reservoir Dam?
Overlook 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 Overlook Reservoir Dam?
Overlook Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Fitchburg, Office of the Mayor' (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Overlook Reservoir Dam built?
Overlook Reservoir Dam was completed in 1872, making it 154 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 Overlook Reservoir Dam?
Overlook 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 Overlook Reservoir Dam?
Overlook Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Overlook Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Overlook Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 30, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.