Otter River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Located in Templeton, Massachusetts, the Otter River Dam is a privately owned structure that serves as a vital water supply source in Worcester County.


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Summary

Completed in 1900, this earth dam stands at 10 feet high and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.

The primary purpose of the Otter River Dam is to provide water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition, as assessed in 2009. It is classified as having a moderate risk level, indicating potential concerns that need to be addressed. With its location on the Otter River, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources and maintaining the ecological balance in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Otter River Dam presents an opportunity to study the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental conservation. As efforts are made to improve the condition of the dam and address any potential risks, there is a chance to explore innovative solutions for sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. The presence of the dam highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the continued functionality and safety of critical water supply infrastructure.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

OTTER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.01

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

38

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.