Wheeler Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Wheeler Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 17 ft (taller than 60.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 485 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 774 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 86 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00077 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
TOWN OF BRIMFIELD, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Woodman Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 15 ftShawville Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 13 ftSquires Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftLake George Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 11 ftDean Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 21 ftHamilton Reservoir Dam
Hampden, MA
High Hazard 17 ftVinica Pond
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 13 ftEast Brimfield Dam
Worcester, MA
High Hazard 53 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wheeler Pond Dam?
Wheeler 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 Wheeler Pond Dam?
Wheeler Pond Dam is owned by TOWN OF BRIMFIELD, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wheeler Pond Dam built?
Wheeler Pond Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Wheeler Pond Dam?
Wheeler 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 Wheeler Pond Dam?
Wheeler Pond Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Wheeler Pond Dam last inspected?
Wheeler Pond Dam was last inspected on November 18, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.