Abbey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Located in Sandisfield, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, Abbey Lake Dam serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Buck River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 39.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 32.5 feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Abbey Lake Dam also supports fish and wildlife pond creation and recreational activities in the area.

With a normal storage capacity of 154 acre-feet and a total storage of 889 acre-feet, Abbey Lake Dam covers a surface area of 36 acres and drains an area of 1.8 square miles. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in June 2016. The Department of Conservation and Recreation oversees the regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this state-regulated dam, ensuring its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

Abbey Lake Dam's design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service showcases a commitment to effective water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Abbey Lake Dam play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and supporting the ecosystem. With a moderate risk assessment and a history of meeting guidelines, this dam stands as a testament to responsible infrastructure development in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

39.5

River Or Stream

BUCK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

32.5

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

889

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

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.