Littleville Dam - Saddle Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Littleville Dam - Saddle Dike, located in Hampshire, Massachusetts, along the Westfield River, is a gravity dam with a height of 46 feet and a length of 935 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1965 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, its primary purpose is flood risk reduction. The dam, managed by USACE, has a high hazard potential and a frequency of inspection every 5 years.

The dam's risk management measures include continual monitoring, prioritizing activities to reduce risks, and engaging with emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and readiness for dam-related emergencies. USACE works closely with local officials to develop emergency and evacuation plans, regularly updates the emergency action plan, and conducts maintenance and repairs as needed to ensure the dam's proper functioning. Despite efforts to mitigate risks, the dam does not eliminate all flood risk, and severe weather events can lead to dam releases or structural issues.

Overall, Littleville Dam - Saddle Dike serves as a crucial asset in managing flood risk in the area. With ongoing risk management measures and collaboration with local authorities, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events. As the US Army Corps of Engineers continues to monitor and maintain the dam, efforts are focused on enhancing preparedness and response capabilities to ensure the safety and resilience of the region in the face of water resource and climate challenges.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

935

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

WESTFIELD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

275

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

52

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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.