Number One Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Number One Pond Dam in Sutton, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

The dam, classified as a buttress core type with a height of 11 feet, serves the primary purpose of water storage. With a maximum storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 24 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite being assessed as in fair condition during the last inspection in March 2017, Number One Pond Dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential. With a moderate risk assessment rating, measures for risk management and emergency action plans are crucial for ensuring the safety and functionality of the dam. Additionally, the dam's uncontrolled spillway type and location in Worcester County highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to prevent potential risks and mitigate any adverse impacts on the surrounding environment and communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and condition of dams like Number One Pond Dam is essential for ensuring sustainable water management practices. With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, proactive measures and emergency preparedness are key to maintaining the dam's integrity and safeguarding the local ecosystem and residents from potential harm. Continued monitoring and adherence to regulatory standards by the Department of Conservation and Recreation are vital for the long-term resilience of Number One Pond Dam and its critical role in water resource management.

Dam Height

11

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

56

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.