Ramsdall Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Ramsdall Pond Dam, located in Gardner, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure that is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

The dam, situated on Beaver Brook, is classified as a Buttress type with a height of 9 feet and a hydraulic height of 8 feet. It has a storage capacity of 11.12 acre-feet and a drainage area of 8.9 square miles.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Ramsdall Pond Dam poses a moderate risk, as indicated by a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's last inspection took place on May 31, 2018, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and does not have outlet gates or associated structures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ramsdall Pond Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management in the face of changing environmental conditions. As a key infrastructure in Worcester County, Massachusetts, the dam's condition and regulatory oversight highlight the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with ensuring the safety and integrity of water resources in the region.

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

BEAVER BROOK

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

8.9

Nid Storage

11.12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.