Thompson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Thompson Pond Dam, located in Spencer, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is to support fish and wildlife pond activities, as well as recreation in the area. Built with an earth core and buttress design, the dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17 feet. With a storage capacity of 1950 acre-feet and a normal storage of 791 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Thompson Pond Dam is in fair condition as of its last assessment in 2016. The dam has an inspection frequency of 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in June 2016. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with measures in place to manage potential risks associated with the structure. Overall, Thompson Pond Dam serves as a vital resource for both wildlife and recreational activities in the Worcester County area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management for water infrastructure in the region.

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TURKEY HILL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.02

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

9.16

Nid Storage

1950

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.