Delcarte Open Space Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Delcarte Open Space Dam No.


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Summary

3, located in Franklin, Massachusetts, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes. This earth dam, with a height of 9.1 feet and a hydraulic height of 4.8 feet, spans over Miller Brook and has a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet. Despite being of low hazard potential and having a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2013, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 0 feet and is situated in Norfolk County. While its primary purpose is recreation, the dam also offers flood protection and water supply benefits to the surrounding area. Notably, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With its scenic location and importance for water resource management, Delcarte Open Space Dam No. 3 is a key piece of infrastructure in the region.

Given its critical role in water management and recreation, the dam has undergone regular inspections since its last assessment in 2013. Its emergency action plan status and adherence to guidelines are yet to be documented, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness. With the potential for future modifications or improvements, Delcarte Open Space Dam No. 3 remains a vital asset in the local ecosystem, contributing to both the community's well-being and the conservation of the surrounding natural resources.

Dam Height

9.1

River Or Stream

MILLER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

4.8

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

128

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.