Alden Street Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Alden Street Dike in Ludlow, Massachusetts, is a private earth dam constructed in 1940 primarily for hydroelectric purposes, with the added benefit of recreation.


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Summary

This structure spans 580 feet in length and stands at a height of 13 feet, holding a storage capacity of 3200 acre-feet within its 185-acre surface area. Situated on the Chicopee River, the dam serves as a key component in the New England District's water resource management, overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Despite its low hazard potential, the Alden Street Dike presents a high risk factor, prompting a regular inspection frequency of every three years to ensure its structural integrity. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 664 square miles, relies on the dam for flood control and water supply management. With no spillway in place, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are crucial in mitigating any potential threats to downstream communities and infrastructure. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Alden Street Dike an intriguing case study in sustainable water resource development and management.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Chicopee River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

185

Drainage Area

664

Nid Storage

3200

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.