Wards Pond Dam

TRIBUTARY OF WEST BR FARMINGTON RIVER· Hampden, Massachusetts· Earth· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Wards 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 20 ft (taller than 69.5% in MA)
Dam Length460 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage119 acre-ft
Normal Storage71 acre-ft
Surface Area23 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
NID IDMA00320

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 11, 2015
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

GIRL SCOUTS OF CONNECTICUT - CAMP TIMBER TRAILS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Wards Pond Dam?

Wards 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 Wards Pond Dam?

Wards Pond Dam is owned by GIRL SCOUTS OF CONNECTICUT - CAMP TIMBER TRAILS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Wards Pond Dam?

Wards 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 Wards Pond Dam?

Wards Pond Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Wards Pond Dam last inspected?

Wards Pond Dam was last inspected on November 11, 2015. 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.