Grandin Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Located in Northfield, Massachusetts, the Grandin Reservoir Dam is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and serves primarily as a water supply for the area. With a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 86 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam, situated on Louisiana Brook, has a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and a hazard potential rated as "High." Despite this, the condition assessment as of May 2018 was deemed "Satisfactory." The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, and emergency action plans have been prepared, though last revised in 2013. The structure is inspected biennially to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

With its historical significance dating back to the 1930s and its ongoing role in water supply and management, the Grandin Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. As climate change impacts continue to threaten water availability and quality, structures like this play a vital role in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of communities in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

242

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

LOUISIANA BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.14

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

0.59

Nid Storage

104

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.