Turners Falls Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Turners Falls Dike, also known as Turners Falls No.


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Summary

1 Dam, is a public utility structure located in Turners Falls, Massachusetts. Built in 1905, this earth dam serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 16,600 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 21,500 acre-feet. The dam spans 500 feet in length and stands at a height of 10 feet, with a controlled spillway width of 10 feet.

This dam is part of the Turners Falls Canal system and is managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam poses a very high risk due to its location and the potential consequences of a breach. The dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2018. Emergency action plans are in place, although details on condition assessment and risk management measures are currently not available.

Overall, the Turners Falls Dike plays a crucial role in the hydroelectric infrastructure of the area, providing both energy generation and recreational opportunities. Its historical significance as a key component of the canal system adds to its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Turners Falls Canal

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2000

Drainage Area

7163

Nid Storage

21500

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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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