Queen Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Queen Lake Dam, located in Phillipston, Massachusetts, was completed in 1824 and serves as a vital component for recreation purposes in the area.


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Summary

The dam is classified as an Earth type structure with a height of 7 feet and a hydraulic height of 5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1308 acre-feet for the surrounding community. The dam is situated along a tributary of the Burnshirt River and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring proper inspection, enforcement, and permitting protocols are in place.

With a fair condition assessment and a significant hazard potential, Queen Lake Dam poses a moderate risk level (3) according to the latest data available from May 2016. Despite its age, the dam continues to function effectively, maintaining a normal storage capacity of 927 acre-feet and a surface area of 142 acres. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with no outlet gates or associated structures, highlighting its basic yet crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

As a local government-owned structure, Queen Lake Dam plays a key role in providing recreational opportunities while also addressing water resource management needs. With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century, the dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance environmental preservation and community recreation in Worcester County, Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1824

Dam Length

14

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF BURNSHIRT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

142

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

0.71

Nid Storage

1308

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.