Barre Falls Dam - Dike 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Barre Falls Dam - Dike 3, also known as the Dry Reservoir, is a federal structure located in Barre, Massachusetts, along the Ware River.


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Summary

Built in 1958 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 48 feet and has a storage capacity of 63,000 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a spillway width of 60 feet to manage water levels during high flow events.

Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers to ensure its structural integrity. Emergency action plans are in place, although improvements are still being made to meet updated guidelines. The Corps actively engages with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for potential dam-related emergencies, emphasizing the importance of risk management measures and ongoing monitoring to mitigate flood risks effectively.

In the face of changing climate patterns and severe weather events, Barre Falls Dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the region. As part of a comprehensive strategy, the US Army Corps of Engineers continues to prioritize maintenance and monitoring efforts to address potential challenges and ensure the safety and resilience of the dam for the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

1020

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

WARE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

55

Nid Storage

63000

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
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.