Lake George Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lake George Dam, located in Massachusetts, is a vital structure regulating the flow of Wales Brook.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a height of 11 feet and a storage capacity of 878 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in the conservation and management of water resources in the region.

Despite being classified as having a "Fair" condition assessment and a "Significant" hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway, of the uncontrolled type, maintains a surface area of 0.01 square miles and a drainage area of 1.26 square miles. With its moderate risk assessment rating, Lake George Dam remains a crucial infrastructure for water management in the area.

For those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate policy, Lake George Dam stands as a noteworthy example of local government involvement in the regulation of water bodies. With its strategic location in Hampden, Massachusetts, this dam serves as a key recreational site while also fulfilling essential functions in water storage and flow management. As efforts continue to maintain and monitor the dam's condition, it remains a focal point for understanding the intricate balance between water resource conservation and climate resilience in the region.

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

WALES BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.01

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

1.26

Nid Storage

878

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.