Brookhaven Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Located in W.


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Summary

Brookfield, Massachusetts, the Brookhaven Lake Dam is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes. Completed in 1965, this dam on Pierce Brook stands at a height of 7.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 111.9 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with its last inspection taking place in April 1999 and an inspection frequency of every 10 years.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the Brookhaven Lake Dam is state-regulated, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement all overseen by state agencies. While the dam serves as a popular spot for recreational activities, its condition assessment and risk level suggest that improvements may be needed to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. With a moderate risk rating of 3, there is potential for enhanced risk management measures and emergency preparedness to be implemented in the future to address any concerns.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Brookhaven Lake Dam can appreciate its significance within the Worcester County landscape. As a vital structure for both recreation and water management, the dam's condition and risk assessment highlight the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. With its unique design features and historical significance, the dam serves as a valuable asset that merits continued attention and investment for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

7.5

River Or Stream

PIERCE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

5.5

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

111.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.