Kettle Brook Reservoir #2 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Located in Leicester, Massachusetts, the Kettle Brook Reservoir #2 Dam serves as a critical water supply infrastructure for the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1903, this earth dam stands at 28 feet high and stretches 660 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 385 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 29.4 acres and drains an area of 2.99 square miles, providing essential water resources to the community.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses moderate risk, prompting the authorities to implement risk management measures. Despite its age, the Kettle Brook Reservoir #2 Dam continues to play a vital role in water supply management, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns.

As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure resilience, the Kettle Brook Reservoir #2 Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role dams play in water supply systems. With James P. McGovern representing the area in Congress, the dam's designation for water supply underscores the significance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring community resilience and preparedness for future challenges. By adhering to state regulations and conducting regular inspections, the authorities aim to mitigate risks and safeguard this essential water resource for the residents of Leicester and beyond.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

KETTLE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29.4

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

2.99

Nid Storage

385

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.