Stockbridge Bowl Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Stockbridge Bowl Dam, located in Stockbridge, Berkshire, Massachusetts, is a crucial structure regulating the flow of the Housatonic River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1880, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a storage capacity of 11,000 acre-feet, primarily used for recreation purposes. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2015, the dam has a high hazard potential, requiring inspections every two years to ensure public safety.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Stockbridge Bowl Dam has a spillway width of 0 feet and is classified as uncontrolled. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses a potential risk that must be carefully managed. The dam's location in a picturesque setting makes it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts, but also highlights the importance of maintaining its structural integrity for both recreational and safety purposes.

As a key feature in the local landscape, Stockbridge Bowl Dam plays a critical role in maintaining the water levels and flow of the Housatonic River. With its historical significance and recreational value, the dam serves as a reminder of the balance between human activity and environmental conservation in managing water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

HOUSATONIC RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

376

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

11.6

Nid Storage

11000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.