Gill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Turners Falls, Massachusetts, the Gill (Turners Falls Dam) is a concrete dam with a height of 65 feet and a length of 493 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this hydroelectric structure serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a storage capacity of 21,500 acre-feet and a normal storage of 16,600 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Operated by a Public Utility, the Gill Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 120 feet and three Tainter (radial) outlet gates. Although it has a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for this structure is rated as very high, emphasizing the importance of continuous monitoring and risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.

The Connecticut River flows through this area, and the dam's location at the New England District makes it a significant landmark in Franklin County, Massachusetts. With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management and hydroelectric power generation, the Gill Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering in harnessing the power of nature for the benefit of society and the environment.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

493

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

Connecticut River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2000

Drainage Area

7163

Nid Storage

21500

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

65
       
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.
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