Lower Sandra Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Lower Sandra Pond Dam, located in Westborough, Massachusetts, is a vital water supply structure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Constructed in 2008, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet, serving as a key component in the management of the Piccadilly Brook watershed. With a normal storage capacity of 36 acre-feet and a maximum capacity of 45 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the surrounding area.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Lower Sandra Pond Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with inspections conducted every five years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's spillway, categorized as uncontrolled, helps manage water flow during periods of excess discharge, contributing to the overall safety and effectiveness of the structure. While its risk assessment is moderate, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, highlighting the commitment to maintaining its functionality and safety for the community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower Sandra Pond Dam offers a fascinating example of infrastructure designed for water supply management. Its strategic location and design features, such as the buttress core type and uncontrolled spillway, showcase the innovation and engineering expertise involved in creating sustainable water solutions. As a regulated and monitored structure, this dam represents a vital link in the region's water resource network, ensuring reliable access to water while mitigating potential risks associated with its operation.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
PICCADILLY BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lower Sandra Pond Dam
Wood Street 291-299, Hopkinton