Quabbin Goodnough Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Quabbin Goodnough Dike in Massachusetts serves as a crucial component of the state's water supply infrastructure, standing at a height of 135 feet and completed in 1938.


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Summary

This earth dam, designed primarily for water supply purposes, holds a storage capacity of 1,810,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25,216 acres. Located in Ware, Hampshire County, the dam regulates the flow of Beaver Brook and is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

With a high hazard potential due to its significant storage capacity, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of August 2016. Regular inspections are carried out every two years to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite its high risk level, the dam has not been modified over the years, reflecting its sound design and construction. The absence of a spillway indicates the reliance on other outlets for managing excess water flow.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Quabbin Goodnough Dike represents a vital link in the state's water supply chain, highlighting the importance of effective regulatory oversight and maintenance practices for ensuring the safety and reliability of such critical infrastructure. As a key component in managing the flow of Beaver Brook and storing vast amounts of water, the dam plays a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the surrounding communities while also posing potential risks that require continuous monitoring and management. Its historical significance and engineering design make it a noteworthy structure in Massachusetts's water management landscape.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

2140

Dam Height

135

River Or Stream

BEAVER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25216

Hydraulic Height

132

Drainage Area

185.9

Nid Storage

1810000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

135
       
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.