Holyoke Dam
Key Takeaway
Holyoke Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 86.6% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,770 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 26.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 26.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,290 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8,309 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 251,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00973 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Holyoke Gas and Electric Department
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Hillside Beach Dam
Hampshire, MA
High Hazard 21 ftMountain Lake Dam
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High Hazard 32 ftQueensville Dam
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Significant Hazard 22 ftWhiting Street Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 19 ftMarcalus Manufacturing Company Dam
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High Hazard 27 ftLeaping Well Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 29 ftMt. Holyoke College Lower Pond Dam
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High Hazard 24 ftMt. Holyoke College Upper Pond Dam
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High Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Holyoke Dam?
Holyoke Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Holyoke Dam?
Holyoke Dam is owned by City of Holyoke Gas and Electric Department (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Holyoke Dam built?
Holyoke Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Holyoke Dam?
Holyoke Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Holyoke Dam?
Holyoke Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Holyoke Dam last inspected?
Holyoke Dam was last inspected on August 11, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.