Paradise Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Paradise Pond Dam, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, serves as a crucial resource for fish and wildlife conservation.


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Summary

Owned by the state and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7.8 feet. With a storage capacity of 613 acre-feet, this dam is primarily used for fish and wildlife pond purposes, as well as for recreational activities.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Paradise Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam requires careful monitoring to ensure the safety of surrounding areas and communities. The last inspection conducted in July 2015 revealed a satisfactory condition, but ongoing risk management measures are essential to mitigate potential hazards.

As an integral part of the Keyes Brook watershed, Paradise Pond Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and conservation efforts in the region. With its significant storage capacity and surface area of 59.8 acres, this dam serves as a key asset for maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding environment. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate balance of wildlife preservation and recreational activities supported by this essential infrastructure.

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

KEYES BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

59.8

Hydraulic Height

7.8

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

613

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.