Quinapoxet Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
The Quinapoxet Reservoir Dam, located in Holden, Massachusetts, serves as a critical water supply infrastructure for the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a hydraulic height of 38 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 3376 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 5420 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 259.2 acres and drains an area of 19.64 square miles.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, the Quinapoxet Reservoir Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in May 2015. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a moderate risk level, with appropriate risk management measures in place to mitigate any potential threats.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Quinapoxet Reservoir Dam presents an intriguing case study of a vital water supply infrastructure in Massachusetts. With its historical significance, engineering design, and ongoing risk management practices, this dam serves as a key component in the region's water resource management efforts. Its location on the Quinapoxet River adds to its environmental importance, making it a focal point for monitoring and conservation initiatives in the area.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
QUINAPOXET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
259.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
19.64 |
Nid Storage |
5420 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Quinapoxet Reservoir Dam