Northfield Mt. - Northwest Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Northfield Mt.


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Summary

- Northwest Dike is a crucial structure located in Farley, Massachusetts, along the Connecticut River. Built in 1973, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans a length of 2850 feet. With a storage capacity of 21,500 acre-feet, it primarily serves the purpose of hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Despite being under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is not regulated by the state and has a high hazard potential.

The Northwest Dike plays a vital role in water resource management in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 17,050 acre-feet. While the dam does not feature a spillway, its construction and design have been inspected by the FERC, highlighting the importance of maintaining its integrity for safety and operational purposes. As a key component of the area's infrastructure, the dam's risk assessment has been classified as high, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its continued functionality and safety.

Overall, Northfield Mt. - Northwest Dike stands as a significant hydroelectric structure in Franklin County, Massachusetts, contributing to the local economy and environment. With its strategic location along the Connecticut River and impressive storage capacity, the dam serves as a valuable resource for water supply, energy generation, and recreational activities. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure resilience, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like the Northwest Dike are essential to safeguarding communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving challenges.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

2850

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Connecticut River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

278

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

21500

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.