Bear Swamp - East Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Bear Swamp - East Dike, also known as Bear Swamp Upper Reservoir Dike, is a crucial water resource structure located in Charlemont, Massachusetts.


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Summary

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
       
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.