Wheelwright Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Wheelwright Pond Dam, located in New Braintree, Massachusetts, is a private dam regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This concrete dam along the Ware River stands at 17 feet high and serves a primary purpose beyond flood control or water supply. With a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6.3 square miles, this structure plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Wheelwright Pond Dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in July 2013. The dam has not been inspected since then, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a clear need for improved risk management measures and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential threats to the surrounding area.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Wheelwright Pond Dam is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of dams and their impact on the environment. By understanding the challenges and importance of maintaining such structures, stakeholders can work towards sustainable water management practices to safeguard communities and ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

WARE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

6.3

Nid Storage

250

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.