Kendall Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Kendall Reservoir Dam, located in Holden, Worcester County, Massachusetts, was completed in 1911 for the primary purpose of water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 39 feet with a hydraulic height of 33 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 3,850 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 2,850 acre-feet. The reservoir has a surface area of 180 acres and drains an area of 1.71 square miles through Kendall Brook.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Kendall Reservoir Dam is classified as a high hazard potential structure with a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2015. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is primarily constructed of earth with a buttress core type. Despite a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years and is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kendall Reservoir Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. With its historical significance, high hazard potential, and critical role in providing water supply to the surrounding area, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure component that requires careful monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of nearby communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

1120

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

KENDALL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

180

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

1.71

Nid Storage

3850

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.