Lake Whittemore Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Lake Whittemore Dam, located in Spencer, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, primarily used for recreation, stands at a height of 18 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet. The dam holds a normal storage capacity of 202 acre-feet and has a drainage area of 0.65 square miles, providing a surface area of 55 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Lake Whittemore Dam has a high hazard potential, requiring inspections every two years to ensure public safety. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates pose risks that are managed through risk assessment and emergency action planning. The surrounding area, part of the Tributary of Sevenmile River, benefits from the dam's recreational opportunities while also facing moderate risk due to its proximity to a high hazard structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Whittemore Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its historical significance and recreational importance, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental safety in water infrastructure projects. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the complexities of structures like Lake Whittemore Dam is crucial for sustainable water management practices and mitigating potential hazards in the future.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF SEVENMILE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.65

Nid Storage

484

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.