Fife Brook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Located in Charlemont, Massachusetts, Fife Brook (also known as Bear Swamp Lower Reservoir Dike) stands as a significant hydroelectric facility along the Deerfield River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1974, this dam boasts a height of 130 feet and a storage capacity of 4600 acre-feet, serving as a critical water resource in the region. With a maximum discharge rate of 73900 cubic feet per second, Fife Brook plays a pivotal role in regulating water flow and supporting various ecological systems.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Fife Brook's primary purpose is hydroelectric generation, utilizing a controlled spillway and two Tainter (radial) outlet gates. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, with a very high risk assessment rating, making it crucial for proper risk management measures to be in place. Despite not being state-regulated, Fife Brook's impact on the surrounding environment and water resources cannot be understated, highlighting the interconnectedness between water infrastructure and climate resilience in the area.

As a key component of the New England District, Fife Brook serves as a prime example of how hydroelectric facilities can contribute to both energy production and water resource management. With its impressive history and vital role in the local ecosystem, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water practices and climate-conscious infrastructure development in the face of increasing environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

130

River Or Stream

Deerfield River

Surface Area

152

Drainage Area

250

Nid Storage

4600

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

130
       
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.