Palmer Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Palmer Brook Dam, located in Becket, Massachusetts, is a privately-owned structure that serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This earth-type dam, completed in 1968, stands at a height of 33.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 2,483 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the West Branch Farmington River, is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Palmer Brook Dam is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in August 2017. The dam's Emergency Action Plan is up to date, and it meets state guidelines for risk management. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is equipped with necessary measures to handle emergencies effectively. Its location in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, offers a serene setting for outdoor activities and wildlife observation, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Overall, Palmer Brook Dam stands as a vital structure for water management in the region, providing both recreational opportunities and essential flood control measures. With its strategic placement on the West Branch Farmington River, the dam serves as a reminder of the balance between human enjoyment of natural resources and the need for responsible stewardship to ensure the safety and sustainability of waterways in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

33.5

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH FARMINGTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

134

Hydraulic Height

23.5

Drainage Area

1.52

Nid Storage

2483

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.