Harris Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Harris Pond Dam, located in Ludlow, Massachusetts, is a concrete buttress dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam spans 50 feet in length and stands at a height of 10 feet, with a hydraulic height of 8 feet. The dam holds a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 56 acre-feet, and covers a surface area of 14 acres.

Despite being rated in fair condition during its last inspection in April 2017, Harris Pond Dam has been designated as having a significant hazard potential. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, this structure is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is situated on Harris Brook/Fuller Brook and falls under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harris Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its design, condition, and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the balance between recreational use, safety concerns, and environmental protection in the context of water resource management. The ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Harris Pond Dam highlight the importance of proactive risk management strategies in safeguarding critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

HARRIS BROOK/FULLER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

8.83

Nid Storage

84

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.