Lower Highland Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Lower Highland Lake Dam, located in Goshen, Massachusetts, has been standing tall since its completion in 1852.
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Summary
This rockfill dam on the West Branch Mill River serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for local species. With a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 1530 acre-feet, the dam also offers recreational opportunities in addition to its ecological benefits.
Owned and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Lower Highland Lake Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition was assessed as satisfactory as of August 2017. Despite the moderate risk associated with the dam, it meets guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential threats.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the vital role that Lower Highland Lake Dam plays in conserving and enhancing the surrounding ecosystem. Its presence not only supports fish and wildlife populations but also provides a serene recreational space for visitors to enjoy. As a state-regulated structure, the dam is carefully monitored to maintain its functionality and protect the community from any potential risks, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable water resource management in Hampshire County, Massachusetts.
Year Completed |
1852 |
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH MILL RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
93 |
Hydraulic Height |
24.5 |
Drainage Area |
1.7 |
Nid Storage |
1530 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lower Highland Lake Dam