West Parish Filter #3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

West Parish Filter #3 Dam, located in Westfield, Massachusetts, is a crucial structure for water supply purposes, with a primary focus on providing clean and reliable water to the community.


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Summary

Built in 1910, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a storage capacity of 155.5 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, West Parish Filter #3 Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, according to the last assessment conducted in November 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is designed with buttress core types. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, providing essential water resources to the surrounding area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and maintenance efforts that go into ensuring the safety and reliability of this vital infrastructure.

As a vital component of the local water supply system, West Parish Filter #3 Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With a history dating back over a century, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and protecting our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. Climate and water enthusiasts can find inspiration in the resilience and functionality of this essential structure, which continues to provide a lifeline to the community it serves.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

SWSC INTAKE TUNNEL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.3

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

155.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.