Bartlett Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Bartlett Pond Dam, located in Northborough, Massachusetts, was completed in 1885 and serves as a crucial structure for recreational purposes and water supply.


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Summary

It is a low-hazard dam with a fair condition assessment, last inspected in December 2015. The dam has a hydraulic height of 14.5 feet and a NID storage capacity of 450 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 200 acre-feet.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Bartlett Pond Dam plays a vital role in managing the Stirrup Brook river and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety. Despite its age, Bartlett Pond Dam continues to be an essential resource for both residents and wildlife in Worcester County.

As a part of the New England District, Bartlett Pond Dam stands as a testament to the historical significance of water resource management in the region. With its unique design and purpose, the dam offers a glimpse into the engineering achievements of the past while highlighting the importance of maintaining infrastructure to adapt to changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bartlett Pond Dam represents a blend of history, functionality, and environmental stewardship in the heart of Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

STIRRUP BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

44

Hydraulic Height

14.5

Drainage Area

2.95

Nid Storage

450

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.