Northborough Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Northborough Reservoir Dam, located in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, serves as a critical water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a capacity to store up to 80 acre-feet of water. The dam, built on Rawson Hill Brook, plays a vital role in sustaining the local ecosystem and providing water for various purposes.

Despite its importance, the Northborough Reservoir Dam poses significant hazard potential and is currently assessed as being in poor condition. With a moderate risk rating, there is a pressing need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam. Its spillway type is uncontrolled, and the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is not available, indicating a potential area of improvement in emergency preparedness.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts should take note of the Northborough Reservoir Dam, as it not only plays a crucial role in water supply but also presents challenges in terms of safety and risk management. With ongoing assessments and inspections, efforts are being made to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the long-term sustainability of this important infrastructure in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Dam Length

576

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

RAWSON HILL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.