Lower Naukeag Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sunset Lake Dam Lake Watatic Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Lower Naukeag Lake Dam, located in Ashburnham, Massachusetts, stands as a vital structure for recreational purposes, boasting a historical completion date of 1900.
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Summary
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam with a buttress core type stands at a height of 12 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 2150 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the tributary to Millers River and covers a surface area of 285 acres, serving as a significant water resource for the region.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of January 2018, Lower Naukeag Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's emergency action plan last revised in April 2011 signifies the need for preparedness in case of potential risks. While the dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, its primary purpose for recreation underscores the balance between water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in Worcester County, Massachusetts.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Lower Naukeag Lake Dam to be a captivating intersection of historical significance and modern-day infrastructure challenges. As a locally owned and state-regulated structure, the dam symbolizes the delicate balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship in safeguarding water resources amidst changing climate patterns. With its unique design features and high hazard potential, Lower Naukeag Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that sustainable dam management plays in ensuring the resilience of water ecosystems in the face of climate uncertainties.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO MILLERS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
285 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
2150 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Dennison State Park
East Dennison Camping Area
Otter River State Forest
North Dennison Camping Area
Beaman Pond Campground
Damon Pond Campground
Lower Naukeag Lake Dam
Grassy Pond boat launch