The Rising Paper Company Dam, located in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, serves as a crucial water supply structure along the Housatonic River.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28 feet, with a storage capacity of 710 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential, the dam is state-regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring regular inspection and enforcement to maintain its satisfactory condition.
The dam's primary purpose is water supply, providing a normal storage capacity of 195 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 44.2 acres. With a drainage area of 279 square miles, the dam plays a key role in water resource management in Berkshire, Massachusetts. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the Rising Paper Company Dam has implemented risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats and ensure the safety of nearby communities.
The Rising Paper Company Dam's design, with a buttress core type and uncontrolled spillway, reflects its emphasis on water supply reliability. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, regular inspections and a comprehensive Emergency Action Plan help to ensure the dam's continued operational efficiency. With its strategic location and vital role in water resource management, the Rising Paper Company Dam stands as a significant asset in the region's infrastructure for climate and water resource enthusiasts to appreciate.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
HOUSATONIC RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
279 |
Nid Storage |
710 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
AT Thruhiker camping
|
||
Beartown State Forest
|
||
Shaker camp
|
||
October Mountain State Forest
|
||
Fox Hollow Camping
|
||
Race Brook Campsites
|