Byron Weston Dam No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Byron Weston Dam No.


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Summary

1, located in Dalton, Massachusetts, stands as a historic stone dam completed in 1875 along the East Branch Housatonic River. This dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, with a primary focus on recreation. With a dam height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 580 acre-feet, this structure plays a vital role in water resource management in the Berkshire County region.

Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 deemed it satisfactory, with a moderate risk rating. The last inspection in October 2016 highlighted the dam's structural integrity and its ability to withstand potential risks, showcasing its importance in safeguarding the surrounding area from flooding and ensuring water availability for various purposes.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts are drawn to Byron Weston Dam No. 1 for its historical significance, recreational opportunities, and its role in fire protection and water storage. As a key feature along the East Branch Housatonic River, this stone dam stands as a testament to early engineering feats and continues to be a crucial component in managing water resources in Berkshire, Massachusetts. With a focus on safety and risk management, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure for long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1875

Dam Length

110

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

EAST BRANCH HOUSATONIC RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

0.04

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

53

Nid Storage

580

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.