Dawson Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Dawson Pond Dam, located in Holden, Massachusetts, is a rockfill dam with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Built in 1960, the dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet. It is situated on Chaffin Brook and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition, as assessed in May 2006. With a moderate risk level, the dam has regular inspections every 10 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam serves as a vital resource for wildlife and recreation in the area.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Dawson Pond Dam an intriguing structure to study, given its historical significance and role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats. Its location in Worcester County, Massachusetts, and its proximity to the Chaffin Brook make it an essential part of the local ecosystem and a subject of interest for conservation efforts and sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
CHAFFIN BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Dawson Pond Dam
Sewell Drive Shrewsbury