Located in Winchendon, Massachusetts, the Stoddard Pond Dam is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 6 feet, with a length of 100 feet. It impounds the waters of Beaman Brook/Otter River, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 207 acre-feet.
The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. Its hazard potential is considered significant, although the condition assessment in 2014 rated it as satisfactory. However, the risk assessment is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date not specified. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it does not have outlet gates or locks associated with it.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts would be interested in the Stoddard Pond Dam for its historical significance, engineering design, and impact on the local environment. The dam's location in Worcester County, Massachusetts, along with its connection to the Otter River, makes it a valuable site for studying water management practices and the potential effects of climate change on dam infrastructure. With its moderate risk level and significant hazard potential, the dam also presents a case study for risk assessment and management strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
BEAMAN BROOK/OTTER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
52 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
3.4 |
Nid Storage |
207 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Otter River State Forest
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Beaman Pond Campground
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East Dennison Camping Area
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Lake Dennison State Park
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North Dennison Camping Area
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Tully Lake
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