Leaping Well Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Leaping Well Reservoir Dam in South Hadley, Massachusetts, stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of the Leaping Well Brook.


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Summary

Built in 1890, this earth dam with a height of 29 feet serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 8.5 acres for outdoor activities. The dam has a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 92 acre-feet, providing water resources for the local community and supporting wildlife in the area.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam is under state jurisdiction and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the Leaping Well Reservoir Dam is in satisfactory condition, with a risk assessment rating of 2 out of 5. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2013, and measures are in place to manage potential risks associated with the structure.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the historical significance and environmental impact of the Leaping Well Reservoir Dam. With its rich heritage and role in providing recreational opportunities, this dam serves as a focal point for conservation efforts and sustainable water management practices in Hampshire County, Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

LEAPING WELL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.5

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

140

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.