Carter Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Carter Pond Dam, located in Petersham, Massachusetts, is a privately owned dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1924, stands 10 feet tall and spans 177 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a surface area of 42 acres. Situated on the Silver Brook, the dam is regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, Carter Pond Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has not been modified in recent years and has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared. The dam is part of the New England District, but is not owned or funded by any federal agency. Despite its risk level, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for visitors in the Worcester County area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and recreational value of Carter Pond Dam, while also recognizing the importance of ongoing inspections and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. As a privately owned structure regulated by state authorities, the dam serves as a reminder of the balance between human enjoyment of natural resources and the need for responsible stewardship to protect both people and the environment.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

177

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SILVER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

2.23

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.