Located in Upton, Massachusetts, the Taft Pond Dam is a gravity type structure built in the year 1900 with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet, providing a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. It regulates the flow of Taft Brook and is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the Taft Pond Dam is in poor condition as of its last inspection in 2008. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, there are concerns regarding its structural integrity and the potential threat it poses to the surrounding area. The dam lacks an emergency action plan and has not been updated to meet current guidelines, raising further concerns about its ability to respond to unforeseen events.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Taft Pond Dam serves as both a recreational site and a cautionary tale of the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures for aging infrastructure. As the dam continues to age, there is a growing need for investment and attention to ensure its safety and longevity, while also protecting the natural ecosystem of Taft Brook and the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
214 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TAFT BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
West River Below West Hill Dam
|
1cfs |
Blackstone River At Northbridge
|
1240cfs |
Quinsigamond River At North Grafton
|
31cfs |
Blackstone River
|
106cfs |
Branch River At Forestdale
|
142cfs |
Blackstone River At Woonsocket
|
610cfs |