Overlook Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Overlook Reservoir Dam in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, is a vital structure owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1872, this Earth dam stands at 41 feet high and serves the primary purpose of water supply. With a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet and a normal storage of 131 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding areas.
Situated on a tributary of the North Nashua River, the dam covers a drainage area of 0.05 square miles and has a surface area of 12.3 acres. Despite being assessed as in fair condition with a high hazard potential, the dam has an adequate spillway system in place to manage uncontrolled water discharge. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, indicating the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the reservoir.
Overall, Overlook Reservoir Dam stands as a key component of the water supply infrastructure in Worcester County, Massachusetts. Its historical significance, combined with its functional importance, underscores the need for continued monitoring and management to uphold its integrity and safeguard the surrounding community from potential risks associated with dam failure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water management, infrastructure resilience, and environmental conservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1872 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF NORTH NASHUA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
0.05 |
Nid Storage |
146 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Overlook Reservoir Dam