Atkins Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Atkins Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 89.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 160 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 870 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 615 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 51 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00508 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TOWN OF AMHERST, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Atkins Reservoir Dike
Franklin, MA
Low Hazard 11 ftFactory Hollow Dike
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 5 ftFactory Hollow Dam
Hampshire, MA
High Hazard 31 ftHill Reservoir Dam
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 41 ftHawley Reservoir Dam
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 17 ftDudleyville Pond Dam
Franklin, MA
Significant Hazard 17 ftLake Wyola Dam
Franklin, MA
High Hazard 12 ftLake Warner Dam
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Atkins Reservoir Dam?
Atkins Reservoir Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Atkins Reservoir Dam?
Atkins Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF AMHERST, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Atkins Reservoir Dam built?
Atkins Reservoir Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Atkins Reservoir Dam?
Atkins Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Atkins Reservoir Dam?
Atkins Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 33 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Atkins Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Atkins Reservoir Dam was last inspected on September 12, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.