Windsor Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Windsor Lake Dam in Massachusetts, completed in 1883, stands as a significant structure regulating the flow of a tributary of the Hoosic River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, primarily serving recreational purposes, boasts an earth core type with a buttress foundation, standing at a height of 27 feet and a length of 375 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a hazard potential rated as high, the dam is subject to state regulation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory as of the last inspection in April 2017.

Located in N. Adams, Windsor Lake Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in flood control and water resource management. With a drainage area of 0.39 square miles and a surface area of 20.5 acres, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community. While the risk assessment categorizes the dam as moderate, it is essential for the state to continue monitoring and implementing appropriate risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the future.

With a maximum storage capacity of 235 acre-feet and a hydraulic height of 21 feet, Windsor Lake Dam remains a key feature in the water resource landscape of Berkshire, Massachusetts. As a state-regulated structure with a high hazard potential, the dam requires regular inspection and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find interest in the historical significance and ongoing management of Windsor Lake Dam, highlighting the intersection of engineering, environmental conservation, and public safety.

Year Completed

1883

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF HOOSIC RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20.5

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

0.39

Nid Storage

235

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.