Ward Pond Dam

Worcester, Massachusetts· Masonry· 4 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Ward Pond 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 4 ft (taller than 0.2% in MA)
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage21 acre-ft
Normal Storage13 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
NID IDMA01686

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: November 15, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

UNKNOWN

Private

Nearby Dams

White Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 14 ft

Lake Rohunta Dam

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 24 ft

South Athol Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 11 ft

Riceville Pond Dam

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 13 ft

Crescent Street

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 28 ft

Cresticon Lower

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 6 ft

Lake Ellis Dam

Worcester, MA

Significant Hazard 13 ft

Cresticon Upper

Worcester, MA

Low Hazard 12 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Ward Pond Dam?

Ward Pond 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 Ward Pond Dam?

Ward Pond Dam is owned by UNKNOWN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Ward Pond Dam?

Ward 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 Ward Pond Dam?

Ward Pond Dam has a dam height of 4 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 Ward Pond Dam last inspected?

Ward Pond Dam was last inspected on November 15, 2017. 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.