Westfield Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

The Westfield Reservoir Dam, located in Montgomery, Massachusetts, was completed in 1874 and serves as a vital water supply source for the area.


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Summary

The dam, primarily owned by the local government, stands at a height of 41 feet with a hydraulic height of 33.5 feet. It is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type and has a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 450 acre-feet.

The dam, which spans 370 feet in length and covers a surface area of 38 acres, regulates the flow of Moose Meadow Brook. It is a state-regulated structure, with inspections conducted by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, but is currently in fair condition based on a 2016 assessment.

Despite its moderate risk level, the Westfield Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts would find the history and technical details of this structure intriguing, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety.

Year Completed

1874

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

MOOSE MEADOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38

Hydraulic Height

33.5

Drainage Area

2.5

Nid Storage

700

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.