Westville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Westville Dam, also known as Westville Lake, is a rockfill dam located in Southbridge, Massachusetts, along the Quinebaug River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1962 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits for recreation. With a height of 72 feet and a storage capacity of 24,000 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the area.

The Westville Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 200 feet, and has a hazard potential rated as high. The dam undergoes regular inspections and has an Emergency Action Plan in place to address potential risks and respond to emergencies effectively. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages dam-related flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, engaging with local emergency managers, and updating the emergency action plan as needed to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

In the face of severe weather events and the potential for dam releases, the US Army Corps of Engineers remains vigilant in its risk management measures to protect the surrounding communities and maintain the dam's functionality. By prioritizing activities that reduce risks, collaborating with local stakeholders, and conducting regular maintenance, the Westville Dam continues to serve as a critical infrastructure for flood protection in the region.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

QUINEBAUG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

67

Drainage Area

100

Nid Storage

24000

Structural Height

72

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

72
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.