Pratt's Pond Dam, located in Sterling, Massachusetts, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam has a height of 10.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 8 feet, with a storage capacity of 16.6 acre-feet. Despite its recreational purpose, the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in February 2016.
The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. With a drainage area of 0.4 square miles and a surface area of 2.5 acres, the dam poses a moderate risk (level 3) according to risk assessment guidelines. Although the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, it meets state jurisdiction requirements and is regularly inspected to ensure public safety.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Pratt's Pond Dam will find its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment intriguing. The dam's location in Worcester County, Massachusetts, along with its recreational purpose and state regulation, offer a unique perspective on the management of water resources and the importance of maintaining infrastructure for safety and environmental conservation.
Dam Height |
10.5 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
16.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |