Mount Williams Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

The Mount Williams Reservoir Dam, located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, is a key structure managed by the local government for water supply purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 40 feet and a hydraulic height of 36 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 879 acre-feet and normal storage of 668 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 49 acres and drains an area of 1.4 square miles, providing vital water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its importance, the dam has been assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential, indicating the need for immediate attention. The last inspection in August 2019 highlighted the structural concerns, prompting a moderate risk assessment (rating 3). With the Department of Conservation and Recreation as the state regulatory agency, ongoing maintenance and risk management measures are crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential water infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to monitor the Mount Williams Reservoir Dam's condition closely and advocate for necessary improvements to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the local water supply. Collaboration with relevant agencies and stakeholders is essential in implementing effective risk management measures and ensuring the long-term resilience of this critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

PAULL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

49

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

879

Hazard Potential

High

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.