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.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Little River Near Oxford
|
4cfs |
French River Below Dam
|
3cfs |
French River At Webster
|
7cfs |
Quinebaug River At Quinebaug
|
178cfs |
Quinebaug R Bl Westville Dam Nr Southbridge
|
124cfs |
Blackstone River
|
1320cfs |