Fort Meadow Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Main Street Dam Assabet River Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Fort Meadow Reservoir Dam, located in Marlborough, Massachusetts, was completed in 1848 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.
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Summary
With a height of 30 feet and a length of 325 feet, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 4800 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 4000 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 0.41 square miles and drains an area of 3.44 square miles, providing ample recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Fort Meadow Reservoir Dam is considered a high hazard potential structure due to its location and the consequences of a potential failure. However, as of the last inspection in August 2015, the dam was deemed to be in satisfactory condition. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan is crucial in ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in case of an emergency. While the dam is primarily used for recreational purposes, its management and maintenance play a vital role in water resource and climate management in the region.
The Fort Meadow Reservoir Dam is a significant feature along the Assabet River, providing not only recreational benefits but also serving as a critical infrastructure for water management in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of human-made structures and natural ecosystems. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's safety and functionality, its role in the local community and environmental landscape remains paramount.
Year Completed |
1848 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
ASSABET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.41 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
3.44 |
Nid Storage |
4800 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Fort Meadow Reservoir Dam
Harvard Road 314, Stow