Tighe Carmody Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Tighe Carmody Reservoir Dam in Hampshire, Massachusetts, stands as a crucial water supply structure for the region, completed in 1955 with a primary purpose of providing water.


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Summary

The dam, situated on the Manhan River, boasts a height of 130 feet and a hydraulic height of 116 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 25,490 acre-feet. With a surface area of 354 acres and a drainage area of 14.4 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Tighe Carmody Reservoir Dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2016. While the dam has a high hazard potential due to its size and impact on surrounding areas, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in January 2018, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure in the face of potential emergencies or disasters.

Supported by local government ownership, the Tighe Carmody Reservoir Dam serves as a critical infrastructure piece in the water resource management of the region. With a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam continues to play a pivotal role in providing water supply and regulating the flow of the Manhan River. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like the Tighe Carmody Reservoir Dam become increasingly important to ensure sustainable and resilient water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1900

Dam Height

130

River Or Stream

MANHAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

354

Hydraulic Height

116

Drainage Area

14.4

Nid Storage

25490

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

130
       
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.