Dorothy Pond Dam, located in Millbury, Massachusetts, is a significant earth dam on Dorothy Brook, completed in 1825 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 8.6 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 800 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts and is subject to state inspection, enforcement, and permitting.
Despite its age, Dorothy Pond Dam remains in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2016, with a significant hazard potential. The dam has an inspection frequency of 5 years and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway type. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam has not undergone any recent risk management measures or updates to the Emergency Action Plan (EAP). While the dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, its condition and hazard potential emphasize the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and water resources.
Dorothy Pond Dam stands as a historic structure in Worcester County, Massachusetts, serving both recreational and regulatory purposes. With its fair condition and significant hazard potential, the dam requires ongoing attention and adherence to state regulations to mitigate risk and protect the local community and environment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities of dam management and maintenance at sites like Dorothy Pond Dam is crucial for safeguarding our waterways and ensuring the sustainable use of these valuable resources.
Year Completed |
1825 |
Dam Length |
170 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
DOROTHY BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
137 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.6 |
Drainage Area |
3.73 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Blackstone River
|
158cfs |
Quinsigamond River At North Grafton
|
26cfs |
Blackstone River At Northbridge
|
1240cfs |
French River Below Dam
|
3cfs |
Little River Near Oxford
|
4cfs |
West River Below West Hill Dam
|
1cfs |