West River Pond Dam, located in Uxbridge, Massachusetts, is a privately owned dam on the West River that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 13.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. The dam spans 185 feet in length and covers a surface area of 0.06 square miles, with a drainage area of 33.5 square miles.
Despite its age, West River Pond Dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, last inspected in June 2012. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating some potential for failure and the need for ongoing risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, West River Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic structure with recreational significance but also with potential safety concerns. Its location on the West River adds to its environmental importance, making it a focal point for conservation efforts and risk mitigation strategies. Monitoring and maintenance of this dam will be crucial to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and the preservation of its recreational value for future generations.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
185 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
WEST RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.06 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.5 |
Drainage Area |
33.5 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
West River Below West Hill Dam
|
1cfs |
Blackstone River At Northbridge
|
1240cfs |
Branch River At Forestdale
|
195cfs |
Blackstone River At Woonsocket
|
756cfs |
Nipmuc River Near Harrisville
|
27cfs |
Blackstone River
|
128cfs |