Buffumville Dam - Pierpoint Pond Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Buffumville Dam - Pierpoint Pond Dike, also known as Buffumville Lake, is a gravity dam located in Worcester, Massachusetts, owned and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, the dam stands at a height of 58 feet and has a storage capacity of 12,700 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 27 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 29,800 cubic feet per second.

This high-hazard potential dam is monitored and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to address all types of flood risks associated with it. The agency continually assesses the condition of the dam, engages with emergency managers and the public to raise awareness, and updates the emergency action plan regularly. Despite the risks posed by severe weather events and limited storage capacity, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the structural integrity of the surrounding areas.

As part of its risk management measures, the USACE collaborates with local emergency managers to develop evacuation plans, conduct regular maintenance and repairs, and prioritize activities that mitigate potential risks. By staying proactive and prepared, the Buffumville Dam remains a vital asset in safeguarding against flood events and ensuring the safety of the community.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

3250

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

200

Hydraulic Height

53

Drainage Area

27

Nid Storage

12700

Structural Height

58

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

58
       
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.