Kendall Company No 1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Kendall Company No 1 Dam, located in Colrain, Massachusetts, was completed in 1831 and serves as a crucial water supply structure in the area.


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Summary

With a height of 25 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, this earth dam on the North River has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its historical significance and vital role in water supply, the Kendall Company No 1 Dam has a significant hazard potential, classified as "Significant" in risk assessment. However, its condition assessment as of April 2015 was reported as "Satisfactory", indicating that the dam is currently functioning properly. The dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are not specified in the available data, suggesting the need for further evaluation and potential improvements to mitigate risks associated with the dam.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kendall Company No 1 Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of historical engineering achievements and modern-day regulatory challenges. Its location on the North River and its role in supplying water to the surrounding area make it a critical infrastructure element, requiring ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of both the dam structure and the local community. With a moderate risk assessment score and satisfactory condition report, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1831

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

NORTH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

84.8

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.