Mare Meadow Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Mare Meadow Reservoir Dam, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, stands as a vital structure for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this concrete dam boasts a height of 40 feet and a hydraulic height of 41 feet, providing a storage capacity of 6040 acre-feet. The dam sits on the Ware River - East Branch, serving as a key component in the region's water management infrastructure.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Mare Meadow Reservoir Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safeguard against potential hazards. With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition is deemed satisfactory as of the last assessment in November 2015. The surrounding area benefits from the reservoir's normal storage capacity of 4909 acre-feet and a surface area of 275 acres, demonstrating the dam's crucial role in maintaining water resources for the community.

Ensuring water security and environmental protection, Mare Meadow Reservoir Dam stands as a significant asset in the region's water management system. With its strategic location and impressive storage capacity, the dam plays a pivotal role in meeting the water supply needs of Worcester, Massachusetts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the careful maintenance and management of structures like Mare Meadow Reservoir Dam are essential for sustainable water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

826

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

WARE RIVER - EAST BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

275

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

6040

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.