Juda Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Juda Dam, located in Ware, Hampshire County, Massachusetts, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1962, this gravity dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional recreational benefits. The dam stands at a height of 15.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, providing water for agricultural needs in the area.

Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, Juda Dam is subject to regular inspections every 10 years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam, made of earth and gravity core types with a buttress foundation, spans 230 feet in length and is situated on a tributary of Beaver Brook. In the event of overflow, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 0 feet. With a moderate risk rating and a drainage area of 0.15 square miles, Juda Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Juda Dam's presence not only safeguards water resources but also contributes to the local ecosystem by supporting recreational activities. As a key infrastructure in the New England District, the dam underscores the importance of effective regulation and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of water sources in Massachusetts. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Juda Dam serves as a fascinating example of human intervention in water management, balancing agricultural needs with environmental considerations.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF BEAVER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

8.07

Hydraulic Height

10.5

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

67

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.