Overlook Reservoir Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Overlook Reservoir Dike in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, is a critical structure managed by the local government for water supply purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1872, this concrete dam stands at a height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height of 16 feet, and a length of 875 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet and serves as a tributary of the North Nashua River.
Despite being in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2015, the dam has a high hazard potential. It is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has a spillway type of uncontrolled with no outlet gates or locks and is located within Worcester County.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Overlook Reservoir Dike an essential infrastructure contributing to the water supply system in the region. Its historical significance, high hazard potential, and moderate risk assessment make it a key structure for conservation and management by the local government to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability.
Year Completed |
1872 |
Dam Length |
875 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF NORTH NASHUA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
12.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.05 |
Nid Storage |
146 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Overlook Reservoir Dike