Holden Reservoir Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Holden Reservoir Dam #1, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, serves as a crucial water supply structure for the local community.


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Summary

Constructed in 1883, this earth dam stands at 46 feet high with a hydraulic height of 36.5 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 3200 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2250 acre-feet. The dam spans 840 feet across the Tatnuck Brook, with a surface area of 122 acres and a drainage area of 4.5 square miles.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Holden Reservoir Dam #1 is regulated and inspected by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition according to a 2017 assessment. With a moderate risk level and an emergency action plan in place, the dam is prepared to handle any potential risks and emergencies that may arise.

The dam's primary purpose of water supply highlights its importance in providing a reliable source of water for the community. With its long history and significant role in water resource management, Holden Reservoir Dam #1 stands as a key infrastructure for sustaining water availability in the region while being mindful of its environmental impact and safety measures.

Year Completed

1883

Dam Length

840

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

TATNUCK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

122

Hydraulic Height

36.5

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

3200

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

46
       
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.