Lake Rico Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Lake Rico Dam, located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, was completed in 1972 and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife preservation, as well as recreation.


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Summary

This Earth type dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 4542 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1260 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Furnace Brook, covers a surface area of 250 acres and has a drainage area of 3.46 square miles.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in fair condition and meets moderate risk assessment guidelines. The surrounding area is at risk of moderate flooding in case of a breach, highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures.

With its picturesque setting and crucial role in supporting local wildlife and recreational activities, Lake Rico Dam stands as a testament to the careful balance between water resource management and environmental preservation. Ensuring the dam's continued safety and effectiveness is vital for both the community and the ecosystem it sustains.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

FURNACE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

250

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

3.46

Nid Storage

4542

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.