Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

The Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam in Leicester, Massachusetts, stands as a vital structure for water supply purposes, completed in 1876.


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Summary

The dam, primarily of earth and buttress core type, reaches a height of 61.3 feet and has a hydraulic height of 55.6 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 2,880 acre-feet with a normal storage of 2,300 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 129 acres and drains a 3.2 square mile watershed, serving as a crucial resource for the surrounding community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam undergoes regular inspections, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of December 2017. Despite its high hazard potential, the risk assessment rates the dam's risk as moderate (3), indicating a manageable level of risk. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2007, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in the event of an unforeseen emergency.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts are drawn to the Lynde Brook Reservoir Dam not only for its historical significance and engineering marvel but also for its essential role in providing water supply to the region. With a combination of solid construction, regular inspections, and effective risk management measures, the dam stands as a critical infrastructure safeguarding the community's water resources while maintaining a balance between safety and sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1876

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

61.3

River Or Stream

LYNDE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

129

Hydraulic Height

55.6

Drainage Area

3.2

Nid Storage

2880

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

61
       
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.