Whites Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Whites Mill Pond Dam, located in Winchendon, Massachusetts, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1923 on the North Branch of Millers River.


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Summary

With a dam height of 12.5 feet and a storage capacity of 272 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. Despite its age, the dam has faced regulatory oversight from the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

The dam's condition assessment in 2020 revealed a poor rating, with a high hazard potential attributed to its location and design. The dam has a moderate risk level, prompting the need for risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards. Although the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, efforts may be required to update emergency contacts and ensure compliance with safety guidelines. With its historical significance and environmental impact on the surrounding area, Whites Mill Pond Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and preservation of critical infrastructure.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

12.5

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH OF MILLERS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

37

Hydraulic Height

10.5

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

272

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.