Chimney Corners Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Chimney Corners Pond Dam, located in Becket, Massachusetts, is a private dam constructed in 1961 for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, standing at 28 feet high with a hydraulic height of 24 feet, serves as a vital structure along the Hamilton Brook. With a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres, this earth dam provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Berkshire County area.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Chimney Corners Pond Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, last inspected in October 2011. While the dam is under state regulation and inspection by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, it poses a moderate risk level for potential incidents. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates may present challenges in managing water levels during extreme weather events, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and risk assessment for this structure.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Chimney Corners Pond Dam to be a fascinating case study in dam management and recreational infrastructure. With its strategic location in the Berkshire County landscape and its role in providing water storage for outdoor activities, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human-made structures and natural water systems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

HAMILITON BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

190

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.