Roberts Meadow Middle Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Roberts Meadow Middle Reservoir Dam, located in Northampton, Massachusetts, is a historic masonry dam completed in 1894 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 42 feet with a hydraulic height of 34 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 650 acre-feet. The dam spans 403 feet in length and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

With a surface area of 20.48 acres and a drainage area of 10.7 square miles, the dam poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. It is subject to regular inspections and has an emergency action plan in place to ensure public safety. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and the risk assessment for the structure is rated as moderate on a scale of 1 to 5.

The Roberts Meadow Middle Reservoir Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the region, highlighting the intersection of historical preservation, environmental stewardship, and climate resiliency. As a key component of the local water supply system, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the community while also presenting challenges in maintenance and risk management. Its rich history and ongoing regulatory oversight underscore the importance of balancing water resource needs with the imperative of safeguarding public safety in the face of evolving climate conditions.

Year Completed

1894

Dam Length

403

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

ROBERTS MEADOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

20.48

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

10.7

Nid Storage

650

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.