Burnt Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Located in Westminster, Massachusetts, Burnt Mill Pond Dam is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this dam stands at a height of 8.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 6.6 feet. It has a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 81 acre-feet and a surface area of 23.1 acres.

Despite its historical significance, Burnt Mill Pond Dam is currently in poor condition according to a 2015 assessment, with a low hazard potential. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. While it poses a moderate risk, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place as of the latest data update in 2018.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Burnt Mill Pond Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of historical infrastructure and modern regulatory challenges. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and sustainability of this irrigation structure, its future maintenance and potential improvements will be crucial for both water management and environmental preservation in the region.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

8.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF WHITMAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

23.1

Hydraulic Height

6.6

Drainage Area

1.55

Nid Storage

102

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.