Deerfield No. 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Deerfield No.


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Summary

5, also known as the Monroe Bridge Dam, is a private hydroelectric structure located in Franklin, Massachusetts, along the Deerfield River. Completed in 1992, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 31.7 feet with a length of 151 feet, providing a storage capacity of 818 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 35,800 cubic feet per second. The dam serves a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, contributing to the renewable energy sector.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Deerfield No. 5 has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features controlled spillways and flap outlet gates, with a surface area of 38 acres and drainage area of 237 square miles. Deerfield No. 5 plays a crucial role in the local water resource management and climate resilience efforts within the region.

Overall, Deerfield No. 5 stands as a significant hydroelectric asset in Massachusetts, providing clean energy and contributing to water resource management along the Deerfield River. With its modern design and operational efficiency, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable infrastructure for renewable energy production and climate change adaptation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the vital role that structures like Deerfield No. 5 play in promoting a greener and more resilient future for our communities.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

151

Dam Height

31.7

River Or Stream

Deerfield River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

38

Drainage Area

237

Nid Storage

818

Outlet Gates

Flap - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
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.