Heywood Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Lynde Basin Dam Fitch Basin Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Heywood Reservoir Dam, located in Sterling, Massachusetts, was completed in 1926 and serves as a crucial water resource for the area.
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Summary
The dam is situated on the Wekepeke Brook and has a height of 28 feet, with a hydraulic height of 22.6 feet. It has a storage capacity of 446 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 289 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 37.1 acres. The dam is primarily used for purposes other than flood control, irrigation, or hydropower generation, making it a unique structure in the region.
Despite its historical significance, the Heywood Reservoir Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. The last inspection was conducted in November 2017, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam poses a moderate risk, with risk management measures yet to be specified. With its earth construction and buttress core type, the Heywood Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, while also highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk assessment for water resource infrastructure in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
WEKEPEKE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
37.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.75 |
Nid Storage |
446 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Heywood Reservoir Dam