Morley Swamp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Morley Swamp Dam, located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, was completed in 1860 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this private dam stands at a height of 8.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. The dam, classified as an Earth type with a Buttress core, controls a tributary of Buck River and covers a surface area of 0.02 square miles.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Morley Swamp Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in 2009. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has a regular inspection frequency of every 10 years and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities for the local community while ensuring the safety of the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Overall, Morley Swamp Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in Massachusetts. As a state-regulated and permitted structure, it highlights the collaboration between private owners and government agencies to maintain the safety and functionality of vital infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Morley Swamp Dam serves as a fascinating example of a historic dam that continues to play a significant role in the local ecosystem and recreational landscape.

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

226

Dam Height

8.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF BUCK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.02

Hydraulic Height

5.6

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.