Ludlow Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ludlow Reservoir Dam is a vital water supply structure located in Ludlow, Massachusetts.


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Summary

Completed in 1877, this Earth dam stands at 29 feet high and spans 315 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 8,300 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 5,500 acre-feet and a drainage area of 21.4 square miles.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Ludlow Reservoir Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition and undergoes regular inspections to maintain its integrity. With a high risk rating of 2, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are crucial for addressing any potential threats to public safety and the surrounding environment.

Situated on Broad Brook, Ludlow Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources in the region, while also requiring careful monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any risks associated with its operation. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Ludlow Reservoir Dam to be an intriguing structure that combines historical significance with modern-day challenges in ensuring the sustainability of water supply systems.

Year Completed

1877

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

BROAD BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

370

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

21.4

Nid Storage

8300

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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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.