Ware River Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

The Ware River Diversion Dam, located in Barre, Massachusetts, is a state-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1910, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and serves the primary purpose of water supply. With a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet and a drainage area of 99 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in September 2014. It has an uncontrolled spillway type and a moderate risk level. The structure is inspected every 5 years to ensure its safety and functionality. With its strategic location on the Ware River and its vital role in water supply, the Ware River Diversion Dam is a key component of the state's infrastructure for managing water resources and ensuring water security in the region.

Overall, the Ware River Diversion Dam is a critical water management infrastructure in Worcester County, Massachusetts. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water supply, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. As a state-regulated structure with a focus on water supply, the Ware River Diversion Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding water resources for the community and highlighting the need for effective dam management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

WARE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

99

Nid Storage

500

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.