Holyoke - Overflow No.
Wind
Humidity
4, located in Holyoke, Massachusetts, is a vital structure owned by the local government and managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Constructed in 1891, this masonry dam serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation while also providing recreational opportunities. With a height of 22.5 feet and a storage capacity of 26,000 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in the region's water resource management.
The dam is situated on the Holyoke Canal, within the Hampden County of Massachusetts, and has a controlled spillway width of 150 feet. It has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, making it essential to ensure proper maintenance and risk management measures. With four slide (sluice gate) outlet gates and a maximum discharge capacity of 950 cubic feet per second, Holyoke - Overflow No. 4 is a significant infrastructure contributing to the area's water supply and energy needs.
Despite not being state-regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections by FERC, with the last inspection conducted in September 2017. The structure has a rich history of serving the community for over a century and continues to be a key component in the water resource infrastructure of the region. As a notable example of early hydroelectric development in the area, Holyoke - Overflow No. 4 stands as a reminder of the intersection between water resources, climate, and sustainable energy practices.
Year Completed |
1891 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
22.5 |
River Or Stream |
Holyoke Canal |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
2290 |
Drainage Area |
8309 |
Nid Storage |
26000 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |