Assabet River Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Boon Dam Main Street Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
The Assabet River Dam in Stow, Massachusetts, stands as a significant structure in the state's water resource management, offering recreational opportunities to the local community.
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Summary
Completed in 1924, this gravity dam spans 140 feet in length and reaches a height of 14.5 feet, with a primary purpose of facilitating recreation along the Assabet River. Regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, ensuring its continued safety and functionality for water enthusiasts.
With a drainage area of 75.5 square miles, the Assabet River Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the region. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's structural integrity remains sound, as evidenced by its last inspection in 2009. The presence of an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum storage capacity of 124 acre-feet further highlight the dam's importance in maintaining the ecological balance of the Assabet River ecosystem. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find the Assabet River Dam to be a captivating example of sustainable infrastructure that not only serves recreational purposes but also contributes to the overall water management strategies in Massachusetts.
As a private-owned structure with state regulation and inspection, the Assabet River Dam embodies a collaborative effort between local stakeholders and government agencies to ensure its safe operation. With a focus on recreation and water resource management, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human needs with environmental conservation. For those interested in the intersection of climate resilience, water conservation, and recreational activities, the Assabet River Dam serves as a compelling case study in sustainable infrastructure development and management.
Year Completed |
1924 |
Dam Length |
140 |
Dam Height |
14.5 |
River Or Stream |
ASSABET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
75.5 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Assabet River Dam
Harvard Road 314, Stow