Eclipse Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Eclipse Dam, located in North Adams, Massachusetts, is a concrete structure completed in 1960 with a primary purpose of "Other." The dam, standing at a height of 51.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 38 feet, serves the North Branch Hoosic River and has a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet.


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Summary

With a hazard potential rated as "High" and a condition assessment of "Fair," the dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts.

With a drainage area of 41.6 square miles, Eclipse Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Berkshire County. Its moderate risk level of "3" indicates the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures. Despite its fair condition, the dam has successfully met state inspection and enforcement requirements, ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the integrity of the N. Branch Hoosic River ecosystem.

Eclipse Dam, with a storage capacity of 142 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.83 acres, stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and regulating water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of structures like Eclipse Dam is crucial for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water systems in the future.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

51.5

River Or Stream

N. BRANCH HOOSIC RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1.83

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

41.6

Nid Storage

142

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

52
       
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.