Patch Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Patch Pond Dam in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a locally owned masonry dam that regulates water flow on Tatnuck Brook.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 12 feet and a hydraulic height of 5 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.82 acres. Although the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment, it is regularly inspected, permitted, and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

The primary purpose of Patch Pond Dam is listed as "Other," with the dam serving various purposes beyond flood control or water supply. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it has no outlet gates or associated structures. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks an emergency action plan. The last inspection in April 2019 noted the dam's condition as unsatisfactory, indicating a need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection in the area.

Located in Worcester County, Patch Pond Dam is situated within the New England District and falls under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency. With a notable hazard potential, the dam poses risks that require careful monitoring and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols. Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and safety of dams will find Patch Pond Dam to be a compelling case study in the ongoing challenges of balancing water management needs with environmental and public safety concerns.

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TATNUCK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

4.82

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

9.9

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.