Morse Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Morse Pond Dam, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, of Earth type with a buttress core, stands at a height of 8.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 6.8 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 204 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 136 acre-feet and a surface area of 0.06 square miles. It is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, ensuring that it meets state inspection requirements and enforcement measures.
Despite its low hazard potential, Morse Pond Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in August 2012. The dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and does not meet guidelines for inundation maps and emergency contacts. However, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 out of 5. The structure has not been modified in recent years and does not have associated locks or outlet gates. Despite its current condition, Morse Pond Dam remains a focal point for recreational activities in the area, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure its safety and sustainability for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Dam Height |
8.5 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.06 |
Hydraulic Height |
6.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
204 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Morse Pond Dam
Bigelow Pond