Parsons Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Parsons Reservoir 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 | 13 ft (taller than 39.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 660 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 27 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| NID ID | MA02348 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
CITY OF WORCESTER, CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Duffy Mill Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 17 ftLynde Brook Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 61 ftLynde Brook Reservoir Dike
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 17 ftPatch Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 12 ftBrick City Mill Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 22 ftCoes Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 21 ftPatch Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 9 ftWaite Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Parsons Reservoir Dam?
Parsons Reservoir 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 Parsons Reservoir Dam?
Parsons Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF WORCESTER, CONSERVATION COMMISSION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Parsons Reservoir Dam?
Parsons Reservoir 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 Parsons Reservoir Dam?
Parsons Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Parsons Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Parsons Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 25, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.