Southbridge Reservoir #3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Southbridge Reservoir #3 Dam, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, serves as a crucial water supply source for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1894, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 24.5 acres and drains an area of 2.42 square miles, with Hatchet Brook being its main water source.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential emergencies. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in providing reliable water resources for the surrounding area.

Southbridge Reservoir #3 Dam not only exemplifies the historical significance of water infrastructure in Massachusetts but also underscores the importance of proper maintenance and regulation to ensure the continued availability of water resources in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the role that dams like this play in water supply management and to advocate for sustainable practices that prioritize the resilience of such critical infrastructure in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1894

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

HATCHET BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24.5

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Drainage Area

2.42

Nid Storage

350

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.