Lower Meadow Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lower Meadow Pond Dam, located in Northbridge, Massachusetts, is a private dam regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 16 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet, this earth dam on the Mumford River serves a primary purpose that is classified as "Other". With a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 350 acre-feet, this dam covers a surface area of 91 acres and drains a 6 square mile watershed.

The dam, constructed with an earth core and buttress foundation, poses a significant hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of October 2014. It has an inspection frequency of 5 years and is subject to State regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Although the dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 0 feet, it has not been modified since its completion. This dam, with a moderate risk assessment rating, plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Lower Meadow Pond Dam's associated structures, if any, are not listed. The last inspection of the dam took place in October 2014, with a fair condition assessment given at that time. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status, as well as its adherence to guidelines, remains unspecified. With a risk management measure yet to be detailed, the dam's risk assessment stands at a moderate level. The significant hazard potential of the dam necessitates ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and the integrity of the structure itself.

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

MUMFORD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

91

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

900

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.