Fletcher Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nabnasset Pond Dam Stony Brook Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Fletcher Pond Dam, located in Westford, Massachusetts, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 960 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 770 acre-feet. Situated on Gilson Brook, the dam is under state regulation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that it meets inspection and enforcement requirements.
Despite being assessed as in fair condition during its last inspection in 2014, Fletcher Pond Dam has been classified as having significant hazard potential, with a high risk assessment rating. Its design features a buttress core type and lacks a spillway, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures. The dam's location in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, highlights its role in providing water resource benefits while also posing potential safety concerns in the event of a breach.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fletcher Pond Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of managing recreational structures within the context of environmental safety. Its notable risk potential underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of water resources for future generations. As a privately owned dam with state oversight, Fletcher Pond Dam represents the intersection of human recreation and environmental stewardship, offering valuable insights into the challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water infrastructure in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
960 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
GILSON BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
770 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Fletcher Pond Dam
Pawtucket Boulevard 936-970, Lowell