Turners Falls Power Canal - Left Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Turners Falls Power Canal - Left Dike is a fascinating structure located in Turners Falls, Massachusetts, built in 1915 for hydroelectric purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned by a public utility, this earth dam stands at 19 feet tall and stretches an impressive 3250 feet in length. It serves as part of the Turners Falls Canal and is associated with five other structures in the area.

With a storage capacity of 21,500 acre-feet and a drainage area of 7163 acres, this dike plays a crucial role in water resource management and hydroelectric power generation. Despite its age, the dam is still in use and has a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being not available. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its regulation and inspections, emphasizing the importance of maintenance and risk management measures for this valuable structure in the region.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

3250

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

Turners Falls Canal

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2000

Drainage Area

7163

Nid Storage

21500

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.
View more

Area Campgrounds