Roaring Brook Dam
Key Takeaway
Roaring Brook Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1975 and is 51 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 | 65 ft (taller than 97.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 435 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 553 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1975 (51 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01056 |
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
SOUTH DEERFIELD WATER SUPPLY DISTRICT
Local Government
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Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Roaring Brook Dam?
Roaring Brook 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 Roaring Brook Dam?
Roaring Brook Dam is owned by SOUTH DEERFIELD WATER SUPPLY DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Roaring Brook Dam built?
Roaring Brook Dam was completed in 1975, making it 51 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 Roaring Brook Dam?
Roaring Brook 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 Roaring Brook Dam?
Roaring Brook Dam has a dam height of 65 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 Roaring Brook Dam last inspected?
Roaring Brook Dam was last inspected on July 6, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.