Ward Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Ward Pond Dam in Athol, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

The dam is state-regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with inspection and enforcement protocols in place. The masonry dam stands at a height of 4 feet with a hydraulic height of 3 feet, providing a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 6 acres.

Despite its recreational purpose, Ward Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The last inspection in November 2017 revealed the dam's poor state, prompting a moderate risk assessment. While the dam has an outdated spillway type of "Uncontrolled," it has not been modified in recent years. The risk management measures for Ward Pond Dam are currently unspecified, leaving room for improvement in ensuring the safety and stability of this vital water resource.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Ward Pond Dam an intriguing case study for the delicate balance between recreational use and public safety. The dam's location in Worcester County, Massachusetts, highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards. With its historical significance as a recreational site, Ward Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in managing and preserving water resources for future generations.

Dam Height

4

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

3

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

4
       
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.