Kendall Reservoir Lower Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 27, 2026

The Kendall Reservoir Lower Basin Dam in Worcester, Massachusetts, serves as a crucial water supply structure for the area, with a storage capacity of 3,850 acre-feet and a surface area of 180 acres.


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Summary

The dam, of earth and buttress core type, stands at a height of 8 feet with a hydraulic height of 2 feet. Despite its relatively small size, the dam plays a significant role in regulating the water flow of the man-made channel leading to Holden #7.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation. The last inspection in October 2015 rated the dam's condition as satisfactory, with a significant hazard potential due to its location and purpose. With an inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam is monitored closely to mitigate risks and maintain its functionality for water supply purposes.

The Kendall Reservoir Lower Basin Dam represents a critical infrastructure component in the local water supply system, with a high-risk assessment rating due to its significant hazard potential. As a key element in water management for the area, it highlights the importance of sustainable and efficient resource utilization in the face of changing climate patterns. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the role of this dam in ensuring water security for the community while navigating potential risks associated with its operation.

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

MANMADE CHANNEL TO HOLDEN #7

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

180

Hydraulic Height

2

Drainage Area

1.71

Nid Storage

3850

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

Hourly 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.