Pierce Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Pierce Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1911 and is 115 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 | 14 ft (taller than 45.2% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 470 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 158 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 86 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 29 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1911 (115 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00883 |
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
LEOMINSTER LAND TRUST, INC.
Private
Nearby Dams
Simonds Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 18 ftBarrett Park Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 15 ftMorse Reservoir Dam
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Low Hazard 24 ftNotown Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pierce Pond Dam?
Pierce 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 Pierce Pond Dam?
Pierce Pond Dam is owned by LEOMINSTER LAND TRUST, INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pierce Pond Dam built?
Pierce Pond 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 Pierce Pond Dam?
Pierce 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 Pierce Pond Dam?
Pierce Pond Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Pierce Pond Dam last inspected?
Pierce Pond Dam was last inspected on March 30, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.