Mill River Dam
Key Takeaway
Mill River Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 40 ft (taller than 92.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 165 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 26 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 54 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01010 |
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 NORTHAMPTON, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Paradise Pond Dam
Hampshire, MA
High Hazard 29 ftRocky Hill Pond Dam
Hampshire, MA
Low Hazard 26 ftLower Mill Pond Dam
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 24 ftVistron Dam
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 25 ftManhan River Dam
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 16 ftCottage Street Dam
Hampshire, MA
High Hazard 25 ftLake Bray Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 13 ftFitzgerald Dam
Hampshire, MA
Low Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mill River Dam?
Mill River 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 Mill River Dam?
Mill River Dam is owned by CITY OF NORTHAMPTON, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mill River Dam built?
Mill River Dam was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Mill River Dam?
Mill River Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mill River Dam?
Mill River Dam has a dam height of 40 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 Mill River Dam last inspected?
Mill River Dam was last inspected on July 21, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.