Sherman Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Sherman is a privately owned dam located in Monroe Bridge, Massachusetts, along the Deerfield River.


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Summary

Built in 1927 for hydroelectric purposes, Sherman stands at a height of 110 feet and spans 989 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 5480 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 87,000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Sherman is classified as having a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, indicating a need for further inspection and evaluation. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its uncontrolled spillway and proximity to a populated area raise concerns about its safety in the event of a major flood or emergency.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Sherman to be a fascinating structure with a rich history and important role in the surrounding ecosystem. As efforts to assess and manage potential risks associated with the dam continue, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human infrastructure and the natural environment.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

989

Dam Height

110

River Or Stream

Deerfield River

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

218

Drainage Area

236

Nid Storage

5480

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

110
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.