Pine Brook Dam, located in Hardwick, Massachusetts, was completed in 1950 and stands at a height of 7 feet with a hydraulic height of 5 feet.
Wind
Humidity
This private dam on Pine Hill Brook serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.4 square miles. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is under state regulation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
The concrete dam, with a length of 120 feet and a buttress core type, features an uncontrolled spillway and is designed to withstand moderate risks according to its risk assessment. The dam's condition was last assessed in 2009, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. Despite having no outlet gates, associated structures, or emergency action plan in place, Pine Brook Dam remains a significant recreational resource in Worcester County. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find this dam's history, design, and regulatory oversight intriguing in the context of sustainable water management and conservation efforts.
While Pine Brook Dam's storage capacity, surface area, and maximum discharge remain unspecified, its role in providing recreational opportunities and managing water resources in the region is essential. With James P. McGovern (D) representing the area in Congress, the dam's presence on Pine Hill Brook contributes to the overall ecological and hydrological landscape of Massachusetts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of Pine Brook Dam serve as vital components in ensuring its longevity and effectiveness for both recreational and conservation purposes.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
PINE HILL BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
5 |
Drainage Area |
2.4 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |