Wachusett Reservoir North Dike
Key Takeaway
Wachusett Reservoir North Dike is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1904 and is 122 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 | 85 ft (taller than 98.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 10,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 250.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 187.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4,160 acres |
| Drainage Area | 121 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1904 (122 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01294 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
Mossy Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftMossy Pond Dike
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftCoachlace Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 13 ftWachusett Reservoir Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 114 ftWachusett Reservoir South Dike
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 45 ftLancaster Mill Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 26 ftMt. Pleasant Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Significant Hazard 13 ftRocky Pond Dam
Worcester, MA
Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wachusett Reservoir North Dike?
Wachusett Reservoir North Dike 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 Wachusett Reservoir North Dike?
Wachusett Reservoir North Dike is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wachusett Reservoir North Dike built?
Wachusett Reservoir North Dike was completed in 1904, making it 122 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 Wachusett Reservoir North Dike?
Wachusett Reservoir North Dike 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 Wachusett Reservoir North Dike?
Wachusett Reservoir North Dike has a dam height of 85 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 Wachusett Reservoir North Dike last inspected?
Wachusett Reservoir North Dike was last inspected on July 27, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.