Washington Mountain Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Washington Mountain Lake Dam, located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, stands as a vital structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this state-regulated dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Washington Mountain Brook. With a height of 28 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, this earth dam boasts a length of 1145 feet and a storage capacity of 5370 acre-feet.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential, Washington Mountain Lake Dam maintains a moderate risk level of 3. Regularly inspected every two years, the dam's emergency action plan was last reviewed in June 2018. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam remains a critical component in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding while also providing recreational opportunities for the community.

Owned by the state of Massachusetts, Washington Mountain Lake Dam serves as a key player in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. As a buttress-type earth dam, its construction and operation are overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With a focus on flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife preservation, and recreation, this dam is an essential structure in maintaining the balance between water resource management and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1145

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

WASHINGTON MOUNTAIN BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

5370

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.