Wachusett Reservoir North Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Wachusett Reservoir North Dike is a vital structure located in Clinton, Massachusetts, serving as a key component of the water supply system in the region.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 85 feet and a length of 10500 feet, was completed in 1904 and has a storage capacity of 250,000 acre-feet. The reservoir, fed by the Nashua River, covers a surface area of 4160 acres and supports a drainage area of 121 square miles.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the structure has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition. The North Dike plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating risks associated with flooding, highlighting its importance in maintaining the environmental and infrastructural resilience of the area.

With its significant storage capacity and strategic location, Wachusett Reservoir North Dike stands as a critical piece of infrastructure in safeguarding the water supply for the residents of Worcester County. Its role in water resource management, coupled with its historical significance and engineering prowess, makes it a fascinating site for climate and water enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

10500

Dam Height

85

River Or Stream

NASHUA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4160

Drainage Area

121

Nid Storage

250000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

85
       
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.