Upper Sawmill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: James Pond Dam Notown Reservoir Dike
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Upper Sawmill Pond Dam, located in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, stands as a crucial water supply structure on Flagg Brook.
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Summary
Built in 1850, this earth dam with a buttress core type holds a storage capacity of 539 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 67.36 acres. Despite its age, the dam's poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential highlight the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability.
Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Upper Sawmill Pond Dam is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a history of modifications and a spillway of uncontrolled type, the dam poses moderate risks that necessitate the implementation of proper risk management measures. The dam's structural height of 16 feet and hydraulic height of 12 feet underscore its importance in maintaining the water supply for the surrounding area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the condition and management of Upper Sawmill Pond Dam, it remains essential to address its poor condition rating and significant hazard potential. With a close eye on risk assessment and regular inspections, stakeholders can ensure the dam's structural integrity and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential threats and safeguard the water supply for the community. Ultimately, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are crucial to sustainably manage this vital water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
245 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
FLAGG BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
67.36 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
11.8 |
Nid Storage |
539 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Upper Sawmill Pond Dam