Borden Brook Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Located in Blandford, Massachusetts, the Borden Brook Reservoir Dam stands as a vital structure for water supply in the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1909, this earth dam is primarily designed for water storage, with a normal capacity of 4540 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 6840 acre-feet. The dam, standing at a height of 75 feet and a length of 650 feet, plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the area.

Regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the Borden Brook Reservoir Dam is regularly inspected for safety and maintenance. With a high hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level. Despite this, the condition assessment as of November 2017 was reported as satisfactory, indicating a solid infrastructure that continues to serve its purpose effectively. Efforts are in place to ensure that emergency action plans and risk management measures are in line with guidelines to mitigate any potential risks.

In the midst of the climate crisis, the Borden Brook Reservoir Dam stands as a key player in water resource management in the Hampden County area. With its strategic location and important role in supplying water to the region, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Borden Brook Reservoir Dam to be a fascinating case study of resilience and adaptation in the midst of a rapidly evolving climate landscape.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

BORDEN BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

211

Hydraulic Height

67

Drainage Area

8.07

Nid Storage

6840

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

75
       
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.