Upper Van Horn Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Upper Van Horn Reservoir Dam, located in Springfield, Massachusetts, is a vital structure managed by the local government for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this Earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a hydraulic height of 24 feet, providing a storage capacity of 172 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Upper Van Horn Reservoir, offering a surface area of 8 acres for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Upper Van Horn Reservoir Dam remains under the regulation and inspection of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. The dam's spillway type is listed as "Uncontrolled," emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and the structural integrity of the dam. With a drainage area of 0.39 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the impact of dams on local ecosystems and communities, the case of Upper Van Horn Reservoir Dam serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between infrastructure development, recreational opportunities, and environmental stewardship. With a moderate risk assessment score and a history of inspections dating back to April 2018, ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance the dam's safety features are essential for preserving the reservoir's natural beauty and supporting sustainable water management practices in the area.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

905

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

UPPER VAN HORN RESERVOIR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.39

Nid Storage

172

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.