Hawley Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hill Reservoir Dam Knights Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Pelham, Massachusetts, the Hawley Reservoir Dam stands as a vital structure for water supply purposes in the region.
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Summary
Constructed in 1890, this concrete dam boasts a height of 17 feet and a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 100 acre-feet, the dam serves as a critical resource for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Hawley Reservoir Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a spillway type listed as 'Uncontrolled', this significant hazard potential dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of September 2016. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam plays a crucial role in providing a stable water supply to the local community and maintaining the ecological balance of the Harris Brook river system.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Hawley Reservoir Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety. With its historical significance and ongoing management, this concrete buttress dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing demand for freshwater supplies.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
160 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
HARRIS BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
7.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.5 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Hawley Reservoir Dam