Hovey Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hovey Pond Dam, located in Grafton, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for local aquatic species. With a maximum storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a normal storage of 100 acre-feet, the dam spans 600 feet in length and stands at a height of 23 feet, with a hydraulic height of 14 feet.

The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has a hazard potential classified as high. Despite this, the condition assessment as of May 2018 was deemed satisfactory. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, and it undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The surrounding area covers a surface area of 22.6 acres, with a drainage area of 25.51 square miles, making it an important water resource for the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Hovey Pond Dam to be an intriguing structure due to its significant role in supporting fish and wildlife populations and providing recreational opportunities. Its location on the Quinsigamond River and its association with the New England District of the USACE add to its importance within the local ecosystem. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's safety, it remains a focal point for conservation and environmental stewardship in Worcester County, Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

QUINSIGAMOND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22.6

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

25.51

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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.