Burnshirt River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

The Burnshirt River Dam, located in Phillipston, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure designed for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 8 feet with a hydraulic height of 4.3 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 267 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 350 feet and covers a surface area of 11.75 acres in the Worcester County region.

With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of June 2016, the Burnshirt River Dam is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity. Although the dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and no outlet gates, it plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the dam's contribution to fire protection and the preservation of local wildlife habitats through its stock and small fish pond functions.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the Burnshirt River Dam serves as a vital component of the state's infrastructure. Its presence not only safeguards against potential hazards but also supports the sustainable use of water resources for both human and ecological needs. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Burnshirt River Dam are essential for ensuring a resilient and adaptable water management system in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

BURNSHIRT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

11.75

Hydraulic Height

4.3

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

267

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.