Morse Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Morse Reservoir Dam in Leominster, Massachusetts, is a vital structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to regulate the flow of water in the tributary of Monoosnoc Brook.


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Summary

Serving as a key water supply source, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a surface area of 0.02 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water levels for the surrounding area.

Despite its fair condition assessment and significant hazard potential, Morse Reservoir Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has an emergency action plan in place and meets regulatory guidelines. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has a spillway width of 0 feet. In case of emergencies, local government authorities are prepared to respond effectively to minimize risks and protect the community from potential inundation.

The Morse Reservoir Dam, constructed for water supply purposes, serves as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. With its strategic location and critical role in water regulation, this dam underscores the need for continuous monitoring, inspection, and risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the region.

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF MONOOSNOC BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.02

Hydraulic Height

20.2

Drainage Area

0.34

Nid Storage

200

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.