Parker Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Parker Pond Dam, located in Gardner, Massachusetts, is a significant earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 2002, the dam stands at 20 feet in height with a hydraulic height of 16.6 feet, providing a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet. The dam impounds water from Wilder Brook and Perley Brook, creating a surface area of 29.4 acres for recreational activities.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Parker Pond Dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk level. In case of emergencies, the dam is equipped with an emergency action plan, although details regarding its preparedness and guidelines compliance are currently unspecified. With its scenic location and importance for water resource management, Parker Pond Dam serves as a vital asset for both the local government and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

WILDER BROOK FROM THE NORTH AND PERLEY BROOK FROM THE SOUTH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29.4

Hydraulic Height

16.6

Drainage Area

6.56

Nid Storage

450

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.