Lower Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lower Mill Pond Dam, located in Easthampton, Massachusetts, is a privately-owned concrete dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of the Manhan River, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.

With a significant hazard potential but fair condition assessment, Lower Mill Pond Dam poses moderate risks that are actively managed to ensure public safety. The dam does not have an emergency action plan in place, highlighting the need for improved preparedness measures. Despite its age and lack of recent modifications, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining a careful balance between water resource management and environmental conservation in the region.

As a key structure in the Hampshire County water infrastructure, Lower Mill Pond Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both safety and environmental sustainability. With ongoing inspections and risk assessments, the dam serves as a vital component in the local community's water resource management efforts, highlighting the critical role that such structures play in balancing recreation and conservation in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF MANHAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

11.5

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.