Buffumville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Buffumville Dam, also known as Buffumville Lake, is a gravity-type dam located in Webster, Massachusetts, along the Little River.


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Summary

Completed in 1958 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 12,700 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 220 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the release of excess water to regulate levels and maintain structural integrity.

With a high hazard potential rating, the dam undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to manage flood risks effectively. The USACE implements risk management measures by monitoring the dam's condition, engaging with emergency managers, and updating the emergency action plan. Despite efforts to mitigate risks, the dam's limited water storage capacity and susceptibility to severe weather events underscore the importance of ongoing vigilance and preparedness to address potential emergencies and ensure public safety.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

200

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

27

Nid Storage

12700

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.