Upper Lynde Basin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fitch Basin Dam Heywood Reservoir Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
The Upper Lynde Basin Dam, located in Sterling, Massachusetts, was completed in 1924 and stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet.
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Summary
It is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type and is situated on Lynde Brook. The dam has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 44 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.3 acres. The drainage area of the dam is 1.26 square miles, making it a crucial water resource for the area.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Upper Lynde Basin Dam is state regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has a significant hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in November 2017. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.
With its historical significance and importance in water resource management, the Upper Lynde Basin Dam serves as a key infrastructure for the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of this dam are essential to safeguarding the surrounding environment and ensuring the continued supply of water for various purposes. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate issues will find the Upper Lynde Basin Dam to be a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1924 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
LYNDE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1.26 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
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.
Upper Lynde Basin Dam