Cherry Valley Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cherry Valley Dam, located in Ludlow, Massachusetts, was completed in 1877 and stands at a height of 42 feet, with a hydraulic height of 32.69 feet.
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Summary
The dam plays a crucial role in water supply, with a storage capacity of 8,300 acre-feet and a normal storage of 5,500 acre-feet. The dam, built primarily for water supply purposes, is an earth-type structure with a buttress core and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment of fair, Cherry Valley Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The last inspection was conducted in November 2017, with a frequency of every 2 years. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a drainage area of 22.5 square miles, serving as a vital resource for the surrounding community.
Cherry Valley Dam serves as a key water resource infrastructure in the Hampden County area of Massachusetts, offering essential storage capacity and supply for the region. With its historical significance dating back to the late 19th century, the dam remains a critical component in water management and distribution. Its location on the Broad Brook river stream underscores its importance in maintaining water supply for the local population, while also highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks associated with its high hazard potential.
Year Completed |
1877 |
Dam Length |
2250 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
BROAD BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
450 |
Hydraulic Height |
32.69 |
Drainage Area |
22.5 |
Nid Storage |
8300 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cherry Valley Dam
Red Bridge Road 16, Wilbraham
Hryniewicz Park
Lavoilette Field
Hallahan Park
Legion/Eager Park
Dufresne Recreation Area