South Barre Mill Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Powder Mill Ware River Diversion Dam
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
South Barre Mill Pond in South Barre, Massachusetts, is a private hydroelectric dam on the Ware River, completed in 1981.
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Summary
With a dam height of 22 feet and a length of 315 feet, this concrete structure provides a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 23 acres. Despite being federally regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is not state-regulated and does not require state permitting or inspections.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 180 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 17,230 cubic feet per second. The hazard potential of South Barre Mill Pond is considered significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Although the condition assessment is not available, the emergency action plan was last revised in July 2018. The dam does not have associated locks or gates, but it serves as a critical infrastructure for generating hydroelectric power in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, South Barre Mill Pond offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural water systems. As a part of the New England District, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and energy production. Its design and construction highlight the importance of balancing environmental concerns with the need for sustainable energy sources. With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of this hydroelectric facility in Worcester County, Massachusetts.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
315 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Ware River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
23 |
Drainage Area |
104 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
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