Fitchburg Reservoir S.E. Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

The Fitchburg Reservoir S.E.


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Summary

Dam, located in Ashby, Massachusetts, is a crucial structure for water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 2337 acre-feet and a surface area of 148 acres. Completed in 1900, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 520 feet along the Falulah Brook. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.

Despite its age, the Fitchburg Reservoir S.E. Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management for the region, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's primary purpose of providing water supply is supported by its capacity to hold normal storage levels of 2018 acre-feet. While the spillway type is uncontrolled, the dam's design and construction have proven effective in maintaining its integrity and function over the years. With its location in Middlesex County, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both local government and the community at large in managing water resources and climate impacts.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

FALULAH BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

148

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

2.31

Nid Storage

2337

Hazard Potential

Low

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.