Buck Hill Conservation Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Buck Hill Conservation Dam, located in Spencer, Massachusetts, is a private Earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the Seven Mile River.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this dam stands at a height of 14 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a length of 325 feet. It has a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

This significant dam has a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in November 2014, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While it is state-regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, there are no federal agency involvements in its ownership, funding, or operations. With a spillway type of uncontrolled and an outlet gate also uncontrolled, Buck Hill Conservation Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and maintaining water resources for fish and wildlife conservation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the conservation efforts behind Buck Hill Conservation Dam, as it not only serves as a habitat for wildlife but also contributes to the overall health of the Seven Mile River. Its strategic location in Worcester County, Massachusetts, highlights the importance of sustainable dam infrastructure for environmental protection and resilience against climate change impacts. The dam's role in providing water storage and flood control measures showcases the intersection of conservation, engineering, and regulatory efforts in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

SEVEN MILE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.9

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

133

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.