Welsh Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Welsh Pond Dam, located in Sutton, Massachusetts, is a State-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This Earth dam, standing at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 8.5 feet, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Fish Hatchery Brook. With a storage capacity of 72.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.8 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the area.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Welsh Pond Dam continues to be a vital resource for water management in Worcester County, Massachusetts. With a drainage area of 0.35 square miles, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 35.2 acre-feet, supporting the local ecosystem and providing a safe habitat for fish and wildlife. However, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and functionality.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and upkeep of structures like Welsh Pond Dam are crucial for preserving biodiversity and mitigating potential hazards. With its historical significance and role in supporting the local ecosystem, Welsh Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and sustainable environmental practices in the face of changing conditions.

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

FISH HATCHERY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.8

Hydraulic Height

8.5

Drainage Area

0.35

Nid Storage

72.6

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.