Clam Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, Clam Lake Dam is a state-regulated structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1977 for flood risk reduction along the Clam River.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 94 feet with a hydraulic height of 88 feet, this earth dam spans 950 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,840 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational activities, making it a vital resource for both the environment and the community.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Clam Lake Dam is inspected biennially and has been assessed to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential. Although the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, it meets state permitting and inspection requirements. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place. Despite these challenges, Clam Lake Dam remains a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Clam Lake Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and supporting the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining and strengthening the infrastructure of dams like Clam Lake will be essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

94

River Or Stream

CLAM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

88

Drainage Area

10.5

Nid Storage

3840

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

94
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.