Rocky Hill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Rocky Hill Pond Dam, located in Northampton, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1924, this gravity dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet. It serves as a vital component in the management of the tributary of Mill River diversion, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles.

Despite its age, Rocky Hill Pond Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently labeled as poor. The last inspection was conducted in May 2006, with a scheduled frequency of every 10 years. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk level assigned, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure its stability and safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rocky Hill Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of historical infrastructure, environmental regulation, and risk assessment. As a key element in the local water management system, its condition and maintenance are crucial factors in safeguarding both the surrounding community and the natural ecosystem. Monitoring and addressing the identified issues will be essential in preserving the dam's functionality and mitigating potential risks for the future.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF MILL RIVER DIVERSION

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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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Area Campgrounds