Williamstown Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Reservoir Report

Massachusetts

Nearby: Mount Williams Reservoir Dam Notch Reservoir Dam

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

The Williamstown Reservoir Dam, located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, was completed in 1898 and serves as a crucial water supply source for the region.

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Summary

The dam, primarily owned by the local government, stands at a height of 31 feet with a hydraulic height of 32 feet, creating a storage capacity of 48 units. The reservoir has a surface area of 3.8 square units and a drainage area of 0.05 square units, making it a significant component of the local water supply infrastructure.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is classified as a high hazard potential structure but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. The spillway type is uncontrolled, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the area, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's location on the Sherman Springs stream highlights its critical role in managing water supply for the surrounding communities.

With a history dating back over a century, the Williamstown Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resource management in the face of changing climates. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure like the Williamstown Dam to ensure the continued availability of clean water for future generations. The dam's role in ensuring water supply security in the region underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and management to address potential risks and challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed	1898
Dam Length	1200
Dam Height	31
River Or Stream	SHERMAN SPRINGS
Primary Dam Type	Earth
Surface Area	3.8
Hydraulic Height	32
Drainage Area	0.05
Nid Storage	48
Hazard Potential	High
Foundations	Unlisted/Unknown
Nid Height	32

Explore Interactive Map

WILLIAMSTOWN RESERVOIR DAM

Reservoir Report • Water Levels • Weather Forecast

December 16, 2025

Year_Completed	1898
Dam_Length	1200
Dam_Height	31
River_Or_Stream	SHERMAN SPRINGS
Primary_Dam_Type	Earth
Surface_Area	3.8
Hydraulic_Height	32
Drainage_Area	0.05
Nid_Storage	48
Hazard_Potential	High
Foundations	Unlisted/Unknown
Nid_Height	32

Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Nearby Streamflow Levels

Hoosic River Near Williamstown 91.4cfs	91cfs
Green River At Williamstown 31.1cfs	31cfs
Hoosic River At Adams 39.9cfs	40cfs
East Branch Housatonic River At Coltsville 25.0cfs	25cfs
Walloomsac River Near North Bennington 72.1cfs	72cfs
Deerfield River At Charlemont 521.0cfs	521cfs

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.