Cold Harbor Brook Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hop Brook Dam Smith Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Cold Harbor Brook Dam, also known as the A-4c Site, is a state-owned structure in Northborough, Massachusetts.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 1150 feet. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits for fish and wildlife pond creation and recreational activities. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.
Located on Cold Harbor Brook, the dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. It has a storage capacity of 2195 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 6.1 square miles. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with uncontrolled outlet gates. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 2013, and while the risk assessment is moderate, there are no specific risk management measures outlined. The structure is not under the jurisdiction of the USACE but falls under state regulatory agencies for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Cold Harbor Brook Dam would find a wealth of information on its design, purpose, and current condition. The dam's role in flood risk reduction and support for fish and wildlife habitat make it a crucial component of the local ecosystem. With a history dating back to the early 1960s, this state-regulated dam continues to serve its community while facing ongoing challenges in hazard potential and risk management. The dedication of the Department of Conservation and Recreation to maintaining the dam's safety highlights the importance of balancing environmental conservation with infrastructure development in the face of climate change.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1150 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
COLD HARBOR BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
6.1 |
Nid Storage |
2195 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cold Harbor Brook Dam
Bartlett Street 152, Northborough