Sandwash Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Sandwash Reservoir Dam, located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, was completed in 1936 and serves as a crucial water supply source for the area.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a hydraulic height of 35 feet, with a storage capacity of 1390 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 65 acres and is fed by a tributary of Roaring Brook.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Sandwash Reservoir Dam is regulated by the state of Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 rated it as fair. With a moderate risk level of 3, risk management measures are in place to address any potential issues and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

Sandwash Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in providing water for the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring its infrastructure. As a rockfill dam with gravity and rockfill types, it stands as a testament to the efforts to secure water resources in the face of climate challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water management and environmental stewardship in Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

1550

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF ROARING BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

1390

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.