Whitin Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whitin Reservoir Dam, located in Douglas, Massachusetts, was completed in 1854 and serves as a vital structure for recreation purposes along the Mumford River.


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Summary

With a height of 33 feet and a normal storage capacity of 3,200 acre-feet, the dam provides opportunities for water-based activities and enjoyment of the surrounding natural environment. Despite its historical significance, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Whitin Reservoir Dam is state-regulated and subject to inspection, enforcement, and permitting requirements. The dam's masonry construction, buttress core type, and uncontrolled spillway highlight its traditional design features. The dam poses a moderate risk level, as assessed in 2017, and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition. Emergency action plans, risk management measures, and inundation maps are essential components for ensuring public safety in the event of a potential breach or failure.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Whitin Reservoir Dam represents a blend of historical significance and modern-day regulatory oversight. Its role in providing recreational opportunities, storing water, and managing the flow of the Mumford River underscores the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure in harmony with environmental considerations. With a commitment to ongoing risk assessment and management, the dam continues to serve as a valuable asset for the community while balancing the need for safety and sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1854

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

MUMFORD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

335

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

8.91

Nid Storage

4475

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.