Morley Swamp Dam, located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, was completed in 1860 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tolland State Forest
|
||
Beartown State Forest
|
||
Shaker camp
|
||
AT Thruhiker camping
|
||
Green Point
|
||
Rocky Point
|