Bear Hole Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Bear Hole Reservoir Dam in W.


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Summary

Springfield, Massachusetts, was completed in 1957 and is owned by the local government. It serves as a vital water supply structure, with a normal storage capacity of 450 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. The dam, standing at a height of 34 feet, primarily functions as an earth-type structure with a buttress core type, designed to regulate the flow of the Paucatuck Brook.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Bear Hole Reservoir Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, but its condition is assessed as satisfactory. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans and contacts, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Bear Hole Reservoir Dam an important component of the water supply infrastructure in Massachusetts. Its strategic location and functionality contribute to the management of water resources in the region, while also highlighting the significance of regulatory oversight and maintenance to ensure its continued operation and safety for surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

PAUCATUCK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

5.5

Nid Storage

600

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.