Palmer Upper Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Palmer Upper Reservoir Dam in Massachusetts is a vital structure managed by the local government for water supply purposes.


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Summary

This Earth type dam, completed in 1930, stands at a height of 25 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. Situated in Palmer and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam holds back a tributary of the Quaboag River and covers a surface area of 9.6 acres.

The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a hazard potential rated as significant. Despite this, the condition assessment conducted in November 2014 deemed it satisfactory. The dam is inspected every 5 years, with the last inspection date recorded in November 2014. With a moderate risk rating, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are currently unspecified. The Palmer Upper Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region and is subject to state regulation and enforcement to ensure its continued safe operation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the Palmer Upper Reservoir Dam's design and operational details, as well as its role in providing water supply to the surrounding area. The dam's location in Hampden County, Massachusetts, and its association with the Quaboag River watershed add to its significance. With a history dating back to 1930, the dam has a storied past and continues to be a key component of the local water infrastructure. The dam's risk assessment, inspection frequency, and emergency preparedness measures highlight the ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and reliability for the community it serves.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF QUABOAG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.6

Hydraulic Height

23.5

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

120

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.