Windemere Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Windemere Lake Dam, located in New Marlborough, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30 feet. With a storage capacity of 1436 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 580 acre-feet, the dam is situated on a tributary of the Whiting River and covers a surface area of 0.25 square miles.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Windemere Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in 2009. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has not undergone significant modifications since its construction. Despite its moderate risk assessment score of 3, the structure is regulated and inspected by state authorities, ensuring its continued safety and functionality for nearby residents and visitors to enjoy the recreational opportunities offered by Windemere Lake.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Windemere Lake Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. Its careful monitoring and maintenance exemplify the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions, making it a noteworthy landmark in the region for both its recreational and ecological significance.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF WHITING RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.25

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

1436

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.