New Home Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Located in Erving, Massachusetts, the New Home Dam is a gravity-type structure completed in 1936 for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 9 feet and a length of 90 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 530 acre-feet and serves multiple functions including flood risk reduction and recreation. The dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and has a controlled spillway width of 87 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 11,250 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the New Home Dam is situated in an area with a very high risk level (1), highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management and emergency preparedness. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, regular inspections are conducted, with the last inspection taking place in May 2018. Additionally, an emergency action plan was last revised in January 2021, indicating a commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.

With its strategic location on the Millers River and its significant role in generating hydroelectric power, the New Home Dam stands as a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike can appreciate the complex interplay of factors involved in managing and maintaining this essential piece of infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Millers River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

106

Drainage Area

375

Nid Storage

530

Outlet Gates

Bascule - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.