Hill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hawley Reservoir Dam Knights Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Hill Reservoir Dam is a critical structure located in Pelham, Massachusetts, serving as a key water supply source for the region.
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Summary
Built in 1934, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet, with a hydraulic height of 37.5 feet, and a length of 450 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 6.4 acres and draining a 4.1 square mile watershed area.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Hill Reservoir Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities. Classified as having a significant hazard potential and assessed as being in fair condition as of September 2016, the dam poses a moderate risk level. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet water supply needs and mitigate flood risks along the Amethyst Brook, showcasing its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the Hampshire County area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Hill Reservoir Dam presents a fascinating case study of a historic structure that continues to play a vital role in sustaining the local ecosystem and communities. With its unique design features, storage capacity, and regulatory oversight, the dam exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and public safety in ensuring a reliable water supply and managing the risks associated with potential dam failures. As climate change impacts intensify, understanding and maintaining structures like the Hill Reservoir Dam become increasingly crucial for building resilience and adapting to future water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
AMETHYST BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
37.5 |
Drainage Area |
4.1 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hill Reservoir Dam
Kellogg Hill Road, Hatfield