Cherry Valley Dam
Key Takeaway
Cherry Valley Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1877 and is 149 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 | 42 ft (taller than 93.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 2,250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 450 acres |
| Drainage Area | 23 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1877 (149 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00548 |
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
CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 28 ftPulpit Rock Pond Dam and Aux. Spillway
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Low Hazard 19 ftPutts Bridge
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Low Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cherry Valley Dam?
Cherry Valley 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 Cherry Valley Dam?
Cherry Valley Dam is owned by CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cherry Valley Dam built?
Cherry Valley Dam was completed in 1877, making it 149 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 Cherry Valley Dam?
Cherry Valley 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 Cherry Valley Dam?
Cherry Valley Dam has a dam height of 42 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 Cherry Valley Dam last inspected?
Cherry Valley Dam was last inspected on November 8, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.