Prindle Lake Dam

TRIBUTARY OF CADY BROOK· Worcester, Massachusetts· Built 1952· Earth· 11 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Prindle Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA)
Dam Length236 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage250 acre-ft
Normal Storage150 acre-ft
Surface Area80 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1952 (74 years old)
NID IDMA01174

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: January 15, 2014
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

TOWN OF CHARLTON

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Prindle Lake Dam?

Prindle Lake 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 Prindle Lake Dam?

Prindle Lake Dam is owned by TOWN OF CHARLTON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Prindle Lake Dam built?

Prindle Lake Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Prindle Lake Dam?

Prindle Lake 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 Prindle Lake Dam?

Prindle Lake Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Prindle Lake Dam last inspected?

Prindle Lake Dam was last inspected on January 15, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.