Wards Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Wards Pond Dam, located in Tolland, Massachusetts, is a private-owned structure that serves as a recreational resource for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 16 feet. With a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 71 acre-feet, Wards Pond Dam covers a surface area of 22.7 acres and drains an area of 1.6 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Wards Pond Dam is currently in fair condition as of its last assessment in November 2015. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk assessment level. While its condition is deemed adequate for now, regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With its picturesque location and recreational purpose, Wards Pond Dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes.

As a key component of the tributary system of the West Branch Farmington River, Wards Pond Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. Its presence highlights the importance of proper dam maintenance and monitoring to prevent potential risks and ensure the safety of both the structure and the surrounding environment. For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Wards Pond Dam serves as a fascinating case study in balancing human needs with environmental considerations.

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF WEST BR FARMINGTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22.7

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

1.6

Nid Storage

119

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.