Cresticon Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Cresticon Upper, also known as Athol Manufacturing Dam, is a private hydroelectric structure located in Athol, Massachusetts.


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Summary

Built in 1931, this concrete dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 280 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet. Situated on the Millers River, it serves as a key component in the region's renewable energy infrastructure, with a maximum discharge capacity of 195,000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Cresticon Upper has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as not available, highlighting the need for further inspection and maintenance. The dam operates with an uncontrolled spillway type, with a width of 79 feet, and is crucial for water resource management in the area, supporting the local ecosystem and providing clean energy to the community.

While not state-regulated, Cresticon Upper plays a vital role in the region's hydroelectric network, contributing to sustainable energy production and water resource management. With its historical significance and functional importance, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and environmental stewardship in the face of climate change and water scarcity challenges.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Millers River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

201

Nid Storage

420

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.