York Lake Dam

SANDY BROOK· Berkshire, Massachusetts· Built 1934· Earth· 23 ft tall
Significant Hazard Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

York Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 23 ft (taller than 76.3% in MA)
Dam Length535 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage487 acre-ft
Normal Storage296 acre-ft
Surface Area35 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1934 (92 years old)
NID IDMA00255

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: February 26, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of York Lake Dam?

York Lake 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 York Lake Dam?

York Lake Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was York Lake Dam built?

York Lake Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 York Lake Dam?

York Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is York Lake Dam?

York Lake Dam has a dam height of 23 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 York Lake Dam last inspected?

York Lake Dam was last inspected on February 26, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.