Porter Lake Dam, located in Hampden County, Massachusetts, was completed in 1919 and serves as a recreational site along the Pecousic River.
Wind
Humidity
The dam is primarily used for recreation purposes, with a height of 24 feet and a length of 450 feet, creating a surface area of 30 acres and a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance, Porter Lake Dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential due to its age and structural integrity.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected to ensure public safety and compliance with enforcement measures. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, adding to the risk factor associated with its operation. While the risk assessment for Porter Lake Dam is moderate, the condition assessment highlights the urgent need for maintenance and potential risk management measures to prevent any potential disasters or emergencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Porter Lake Dam presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of historical infrastructure and modern-day challenges in dam management. As a beloved recreational site in Springfield, Massachusetts, the dam's significance lies not only in its engineering marvel but also in the need for sustainable practices to ensure its longevity and safety for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
PECOUSIC RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.7 |
Drainage Area |
6.13 |
Nid Storage |
450 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |