Arden-Duck Mill Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mirror Lake Dam Pierce Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Located in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, the Arden-Duck Mill Dam stands as a significant structure along the North Nashua River.
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Summary
Built in 1937, this gravity dam serves a primary purpose that extends beyond traditional water resource management. With a height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing vital support to the surrounding environment.
Despite its historical significance, the Arden-Duck Mill Dam is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. With a hazard potential classified as low and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of the dam. The dam is under state regulation and inspection, with the Department of Conservation and Recreation overseeing its operation and enforcement.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the Arden-Duck Mill Dam serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between human infrastructure and environmental stewardship. With its unique design and historical background, this dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of engineering, conservation, and sustainable development in the face of changing climate patterns. It stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water management practices and the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance to protect both the dam and the surrounding ecosystem for future generations.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH NASHUA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.4 |
Drainage Area |
65 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Arden-Duck Mill Dam