Center Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Center Pond Dam, located in Becket, Massachusetts, is a vital structure for recreational purposes, providing a serene and picturesque setting for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 9 feet and a hydraulic height of 6.5 feet, creates a reservoir with a capacity of 625 acre-feet and a surface area of 116 acres. The dam is part of a tributary of the West Branch Westfield River and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Center Pond Dam in 2013 was reported as satisfactory, indicating that the structure is well-maintained and functional. With a moderate risk level assigned, the dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam's spillway, categorized as uncontrolled, allows for the controlled release of water during periods of high flow, reducing the risk of flooding and ensuring the safety of downstream communities.

As a locally owned and operated dam, Center Pond Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical component of water resource management in the Berkshire County area. With its strategic location and important role in regulating water flow, the dam plays a key role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region and showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management practices.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF WEST BRANCH WESTFIELD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

116

Hydraulic Height

6.5

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

625

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.