Deerfield No. 3 - Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deerfield No.


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Summary

3 - Forebay is a private hydroelectric dam located in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, along the Deerfield River. Built in 1912, this Earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 1000 feet, providing a storage capacity of 551 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and high risk assessment rating, this structure is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and inspected every three years, with the last inspection conducted in July 2018.

Despite its age, Deerfield No. 3 - Forebay continues to play a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power and managing water resources in the area. While the dam does not have a spillway, its normal storage of 551 acre-feet helps in maintaining a stable water supply for the surrounding region. The dam's location in Franklin County, Massachusetts, underscores its significance in the local ecosystem and its impact on the Deerfield River.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Deerfield No. 3 - Forebay serves as a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering and its ongoing relevance in modern times. As a privately-owned structure with historical significance, this hydroelectric dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. With its risk assessment indicating a high level of importance in terms of safety and management, Deerfield No. 3 - Forebay remains a cornerstone of water resource infrastructure in Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Deerfield River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42

Drainage Area

500

Nid Storage

551

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.
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