Hayes Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Hayes Pond Dam, located in Otis, Massachusetts, is a private concrete structure that was completed in 1840 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 9.5 feet, and it holds a storage capacity of 345 acre-feet. It is state-regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with inspections conducted every 10 years. The dam is classified as low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2009.

The dam is situated on a tributary of Hop Brook and serves as a popular recreational spot in Berkshire County. With a surface area of 0.03 square miles and a drainage area of 0.85 square miles, the dam offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Despite its age, Hayes Pond Dam continues to provide valuable recreational resources to the community while maintaining a moderate risk level.

Although the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified, its overall condition is considered fair, and it meets state permitting and inspection requirements. With its historical significance and ongoing recreational value, Hayes Pond Dam serves as a vital water resource in the region and highlights the importance of balancing environmental conservation with public enjoyment.

Year Completed

1840

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF HOP BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

0.03

Hydraulic Height

9.5

Drainage Area

0.85

Nid Storage

345

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.