Lynde Brook Reservoir Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

The Lynde Brook Reservoir Dike is a crucial structure located in Leicester, Massachusetts, designed for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1876, this Earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans a length of 1100 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. The reservoir, situated along the Lynde Brook, covers a surface area of 130 acres and serves as a vital resource for the local community.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the Lynde Brook Reservoir Dike is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a fair condition assessment as of December 2017, the dam has a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 2, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. Despite its age, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of providing a reliable water supply to the area.

Overall, the Lynde Brook Reservoir Dike stands as a historic yet essential infrastructure supporting the water needs of Worcester County. With its solid construction and state-regulated oversight, this Earth dam plays a critical role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As a key component of the local water supply system, the dam's maintenance and monitoring remain paramount to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource.

Year Completed

1876

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

LYNDE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

130

Hydraulic Height

10.9

Nid Storage

2000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.