Bondsville Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Bondsville Upper Dam, located in Palmer, Massachusetts, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Situated on the Swift River, this masonry dam stands at a height of 28 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 1160 acre-feet and a drainage area of 195 square miles, the dam poses a significant hazard potential and has been rated in poor condition as of the last assessment in April 2018.

Despite its poor condition, the dam has a moderate risk level and is inspected every 5 years to ensure public safety. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 0 feet, and it has no outlet gates or associated structures. The surrounding area offers a surface area of 60 acres for recreational activities, making it a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Hampshire County region. Bondsville Upper Dam serves as a vital structure for water management and recreation in the area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring in order to mitigate potential risks and ensure its continued functionality for future generations.

Dam Length

122

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

SWIFT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

195

Nid Storage

1160

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.