Putts Bridge Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Putts Bridge, also known as Ludlow Mfg.


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Summary

Dam, is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in Ludlow, Massachusetts. Completed in 1918, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 223 feet, providing a storage capacity of 715 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes.

Operated by a private owner, Putts Bridge spans the Chicopee River and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 200 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 21,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, with the last inspection conducted in May 2019 at a frequency of every 3 years.

With its historical significance and role in renewable energy production, Putts Bridge serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, exploring the engineering marvel of this dam offers insight into the intersection of human innovation and environmental stewardship in harnessing the power of flowing water for sustainable development.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

223

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Chicopee River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

65

Drainage Area

686

Nid Storage

715

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.