Westfield Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Westfield Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1874 and is 152 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 | 41 ft (taller than 93% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 370 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 700 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1874 (152 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00734 |
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 WESTFIELD, WATER RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Tekoa Dam
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 32 ftWoronoco - South Dam
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 25 ftRussell
Hampden, MA
Low Hazard 30 ftTighe Carmody Reservoir Dam
Hampshire, MA
High Hazard 130 ftSearle Pond
Hampshire, MA
Low Hazard 8 ftRussell Pond Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftWestfield Sportsmen Club Dam
Hampden, MA
Significant Hazard 10 ftWhite Reservoir Dam
Hampshire, MA
Significant Hazard 51 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Westfield Reservoir Dam?
Westfield 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 Westfield Reservoir Dam?
Westfield Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF WESTFIELD, WATER RESOURCES DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Westfield Reservoir Dam built?
Westfield Reservoir Dam was completed in 1874, making it 152 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 Westfield Reservoir Dam?
Westfield Reservoir 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 Westfield Reservoir Dam?
Westfield Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Westfield Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Westfield Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 1, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.