Rice City Pond Dam, located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure owned by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1880, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, with a storage capacity of 6,073 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 1,100 feet and covers a surface area of 31 acres, with a drainage area of 147 square miles.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 0 feet, posing a high hazard potential but assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2017. Despite its age, the dam still serves its primary purpose effectively, supporting recreational activities and providing habitat for fish and wildlife in the Blackstone River. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, and it has a regular inspection frequency to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations.
With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting ecological diversity and recreational opportunities, Rice City Pond Dam stands as a valuable resource in the Massachusetts landscape. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate conservation can appreciate the dam's contribution to the local environment and the efforts taken to maintain its structural integrity and safety for both wildlife and the community.
Year Completed |
1880 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
BLACKSTONE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
147 |
Nid Storage |
6073 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
West River Below West Hill Dam
|
1cfs |
Blackstone River At Northbridge
|
1240cfs |
Branch River At Forestdale
|
195cfs |
Nipmuc River Near Harrisville
|
27cfs |
Blackstone River At Woonsocket
|
756cfs |
Blackstone River
|
128cfs |