Caprons Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Caprons Pond Dam, Canal and Gates in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure owned by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 16.9 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife preservation, as well as recreational activities. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and is situated on the Mumford River.

Despite being rated as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition and is inspected every 5 years to ensure its safety. While the spillway is uncontrolled, the dam's associated structures include gates for water regulation. The risk assessment for Caprons Pond Dam indicates a moderate level of risk, but with proper risk management measures in place, the structure continues to fulfill its primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife populations in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Caprons Pond Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts.

Dam Length

168

Dam Height

16.9

River Or Stream

MUMFORD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

55.3

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.