Papoose Lake Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Papoose Lake Upper Dam, located in Heath, Massachusetts, is a concrete structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and has a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The dam has a height of 10 feet and a hydraulic height of 7 feet, with a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles.

The dam, situated on Davenport Brook, has a maximum storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. With a surface area of 14 acres, the dam serves as a popular recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been modified in recent years and is in need of maintenance to ensure its safety and effectiveness in managing water resources in the area.

Although the dam has a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, it remains a vital structure for recreational activities in the area. With its unique design and location in the picturesque landscape of Heath, Massachusetts, Papoose Lake Upper Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while being mindful of the dam's importance in managing water resources.

Dam Length

128

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

DAVENPORT BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

92

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.