Prindle Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lower Sibley Pond Dam Ashworth Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Prindle Lake Dam, located in Charlton, Massachusetts, was completed in 1952 and is owned by the local government.
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Summary
It serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and a surface area of 80 acres. The dam is an earth type structure with a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a dam height of 11 feet, creating a tributary of Cady Brook. It is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity.
Despite being classified with a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Prindle Lake Dam is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in January 2014. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a level of risk management measures in place. While it does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is subject to a five-year inspection frequency to monitor its ongoing performance. With Richard E. Neal as the Congressional representative for the area, the dam continues to play a vital role in providing recreational opportunities and water resource management within Worcester County, Massachusetts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Prindle Lake Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental regulation, and public safety. As a key element in the local water management system, the dam's design, construction, and maintenance showcase the intricate balance between human recreation and natural conservation. With ongoing monitoring and risk assessment, Prindle Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing demands on our natural ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
235.5 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF CADY BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
80 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Prindle Lake Dam
Oxford Road 195-253, Charlton