Rivulet Village Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Rivulet Village Pond Dam, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a privately owned masonry dam on the Taft Pond.


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Summary

Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits for recreation. This structure stands at a height of 15.5 feet, with a hydraulic height of 11.5 feet, and a length of 325 feet. It has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 56 acres, serving a drainage area of 3.45 square miles.

The dam is regulated and permitted by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, its condition is assessed as fair. The dam's emergency action plan is in place, meeting guidelines, and a risk assessment rates its risk as moderate. With its strategic location and engineering design, Rivulet Village Pond Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area while also providing opportunities for recreational activities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Rivulet Village Pond Dam in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events. Its presence along the Taft Pond not only helps in flood risk reduction but also adds to the recreational appeal of the area. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, it exemplifies the collaborative efforts between private owners and regulatory agencies to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. With its fair condition and regular inspections, the dam stands as a testament to effective risk management and emergency preparedness in the face of potential hazards.

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

TAFT POND

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

56

Hydraulic Height

11.5

Drainage Area

3.45

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.