Bear Swamp - East Dike, also known as Bear Swamp Upper Reservoir Dike, is a crucial water resource structure located in Charlemont, Massachusetts.
Wind
Humidity
Owned by a federal agency and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this dam plays a significant role in hydroelectric power generation. Completed in 1974, it stands at a height of 50 feet and has a storage capacity of 5100 acre-feet, serving as a key component in water management and energy production in the region.
Situated on the Deerfield River, Bear Swamp - East Dike is a rockfill dam spanning 789 feet with a surface area of 118 acres. While it currently operates without a spillway, its hazard potential is classified as high due to its age and condition assessment. With the dam inspected annually and emergency action plans in place, efforts are made to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital infrastructure, highlighting the critical role it plays in the local ecosystem and community resilience against climate impacts.
Managed by federal agencies and monitored for risk assessment, Bear Swamp - East Dike stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, energy production, and climate adaptation. Its strategic location, design, and purpose underscore the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of evolving environmental challenges. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate continue to study and advocate for resilient solutions, structures like Bear Swamp - East Dike serve as a focal point for innovation and collaboration towards a more sustainable future.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
789 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
Deerfield River |
Surface Area |
118 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
5100 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
50 |
Deerfield River At Charlemont
|
1540cfs |
Hoosic River At Adams
|
213cfs |
Hoosic River Near Williamstown
|
747cfs |
North River At Shattuckville
|
463cfs |
Green River At Williamstown
|
202cfs |
Green River Near Colrain
|
218cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mohawk Trail State Forest
|
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Savoy Mountain State Forest
|
||
Historic Valley
|
||
Clarksburg State Park
|
||
Windsor State Forest
|
||
Sherman Brook Campsite
|