Leaping Well Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Leaping Well Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 29 ft (taller than 85.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 480 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 140 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 92 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00586 |
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 S. HADLEY, FIRE DISTRICT NO. 1
Local Government
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High Hazard 32 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Leaping Well Reservoir Dam?
Leaping Well 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 Leaping Well Reservoir Dam?
Leaping Well Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF S. HADLEY, FIRE DISTRICT NO. 1 (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Leaping Well Reservoir Dam built?
Leaping Well Reservoir Dam was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Leaping Well Reservoir Dam?
Leaping Well Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Leaping Well Reservoir Dam?
Leaping Well Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Leaping Well Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Leaping Well Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 14, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.