Irish Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Windle Pond Dam Hovey Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Irish Dam, located in Grafton, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 4 feet, serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing important habitat for local wildlife. With a normal storage capacity of 950 acre-feet and a drainage area of 24.3 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the region.
The dam, constructed on the Quinsigamond River, has a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a fair condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam's inspection frequency is set at 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a storage capacity of 1900 acre-feet and a surface area of 272 acres, the Irish Dam contributes to the recreational and environmental well-being of the community. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates necessitate careful monitoring and management to mitigate any potential risks.
Overall, the Irish Dam stands as a vital water resource infrastructure in Worcester County, Massachusetts, supporting fish and wildlife conservation efforts while providing recreational opportunities for the local community. As a state-regulated structure, it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety and environmental protection. With its strategic location on the Quinsigamond River, the Irish Dam remains a key component in the region's water management and conservation efforts.
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
QUINSIGAMOND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
272 |
Hydraulic Height |
4 |
Drainage Area |
24.3 |
Nid Storage |
1900 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Irish Dam
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