Sucker Brook Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Sucker Brook Dam, located in West Brookfield, Massachusetts, is a state-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along Sucker Brook.
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Summary
Completed in 1967, this earthen dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 607 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.5 square miles, the dam plays a critical role in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the region.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Sucker Brook Dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife habitat enhancement, and recreational opportunities. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as satisfactory, with a moderate risk level. Regular inspections, conducted every five years, ensure the dam's safety and effectiveness in protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding events. Overall, Sucker Brook Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in Worcester County.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sucker Brook Dam presents a fascinating case study of how state agencies collaborate with federal entities like the USDA NRCS to address flood risks and enhance environmental conservation efforts. The dam's design, construction, and ongoing management showcase the importance of proactive measures in mitigating potential hazards and ensuring the safety of downstream communities. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water availability, structures like Sucker Brook Dam play a crucial role in adapting to these evolving conditions and safeguarding the region's water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
1025 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
SUCKER BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
607 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Sucker Brook Dam
Cottage Street 2-38, West Brookfield