Lake Warner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Lake Warner Dam, located in Hadley, Massachusetts, was completed in 1918 and serves as a vital structure on the Mill River for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 14 feet, providing storage of up to 485 acre-feet of water. With a surface area of 68 acres and a drainage area of 31.7 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by a private entity, the Lake Warner Dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in October 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating, measures for risk management are yet to be specified, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this essential water infrastructure.

The Lake Warner Dam not only provides a recreational outlet for the local community but also contributes to the overall water management and conservation efforts in Hampshire, Massachusetts. Its historical significance and strategic location on the Mill River make it a key piece of infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate in the context of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

82

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

MILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

68

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

31.7

Nid Storage

485

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.