Mill Brook Canal Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Mill Brook Canal Dam in Webster, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This gravity dam, primarily used for water supply purposes, stands at a height of 9 feet and has a hydraulic height of 6.7 feet. With a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and a drainage area of 9.9 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the Mill Brook Canal Dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2014. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a surface area of 5 acres. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a hazard potential rating of 3. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks.

Located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, the Mill Brook Canal Dam serves as a vital component of the water supply infrastructure in the region. With its strategic position and essential role in water management, it underscores the importance of proactive measures and continuous assessments to address any potential risks and ensure the sustainable utilization of water resources in the area.

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

MILL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

6.7

Drainage Area

9.9

Nid Storage

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.