Located in Middlefield, Hampshire, Massachusetts, the Virginia Lake Shore Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1900, this gravity dam towers at a height of 16.5 feet and spans 100 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 60.5 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of recreation, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.
Regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Virginia Lake Shore Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety. While the dam's hazard potential is classified as low, its condition assessment is rated as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades. With a drainage area of 3.5 square miles and a moderate risk assessment of 3, stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant in monitoring the dam's structural integrity and emergency preparedness measures.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Virginia Lake Shore Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive risk management and maintenance in safeguarding our communities. With an emphasis on recreation and public safety, this historic dam stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptation in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
16.5 |
River Or Stream |
COLES BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
3.5 |
Nid Storage |
60.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rocky Point
|
||
Green Point
|
||
October Mountain State Forest
|
||
Chester - Blanford State Forest
|
||
Shaker camp
|
||
Crystal Mountain campsite (& privy)
|