Mctaggarts Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Mctaggarts Pond Dam, located in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, is a concrete structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1928, the dam stands at a height of 22.3 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17.5 feet. It has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 33 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. The dam regulates Phillips Brook and is under state jurisdiction, regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Mctaggarts Pond Dam is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. The dam has a significant hazard potential and is in need of maintenance and improvements to meet safety standards. The last inspection in April 2018 highlighted these concerns, with a risk assessment rating the dam's risk level as moderate. With its potential for recreational activities and its importance in managing water resources, continued attention and investment in Mctaggarts Pond Dam are crucial to ensure its long-term functionality and safety.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
22.3 |
River Or Stream |
PHILLIPS BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.5 |
Drainage Area |
15.4 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Mctaggarts Pond Dam