Gates Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Gates Pond Dam, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, was completed in 1915 and serves as a vital water supply source for the region.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 21 feet and a hydraulic height of 17.5 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 1115 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 790 acre-feet. The dam sits on Gates Pond Brook and has a drainage area of 0.42 square miles, providing essential water resources to the surrounding community.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Gates Pond Dam is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk level (3) and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway type. Despite its age, Gates Pond Dam continues to play a crucial role in water supply management, showcasing the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for water resource sustainability and climate resilience.

As a primary water supply structure in the area, Gates Pond Dam remains a key component in the region's water management infrastructure. With its earth dam type and buttress core design, the dam has been fulfilling its purpose for over a century. By meeting state regulations and undergoing frequent inspections, Gates Pond Dam exemplifies the commitment to ensuring the safety and reliability of water resources in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

GATES POND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.14

Hydraulic Height

17.5

Drainage Area

0.42

Nid Storage

1115

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.