Lake Samoset Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Lake Samoset Dam in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, located in Leominster, regulates Falls Brook and has a height of 24 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 386 acre-feet. With a surface area of 40 acres and a drainage area of 2.96 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Lake Samoset Dam has a high hazard potential, necessitating regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, indicating the need for careful monitoring during periods of high water flow. In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) may need to be updated to meet guidelines and ensure the safety of nearby residents and infrastructure.
The risk assessment for Lake Samoset Dam is moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3. While the dam currently meets regulatory requirements and has a satisfactory condition, ongoing risk management measures are essential to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the long-term stability of this important water resource infrastructure in Massachusetts.
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
FALLS BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
2.96 |
Nid Storage |
386 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
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.
Lake Samoset Dam