Morse Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, built for recreational purposes, is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type and a maximum storage capacity of 118.27 acre-feet. Despite being assessed as having a low hazard potential and fair condition in 2009, the risk assessment categorizes it as moderate.

The dam, situated on Centerville Brook, has a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a structural height of 9 feet. It features an uncontrolled spillway type and has not undergone any modifications since its last inspection in 2009. The dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are currently unspecified, indicating room for improvement in emergency preparedness and mitigation strategies. With its picturesque location and recreational purpose, Morse Pond Dam serves as a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

As a significant structure in Worcester County, Massachusetts, Morse Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water management and recreation. Its association with the New England District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance in maintaining the safety and integrity of the surrounding area. While the dam's condition assessment and risk level suggest room for improvement in terms of emergency preparedness and maintenance, its overall contribution to the community's water resource management and recreational activities remains invaluable.

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

CENTERVILLE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

118.27

Hazard Potential

Low

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.