Coles Brook Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Coles Brook Pond Dam, located in Berkshire, Massachusetts, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.95 square miles, the dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community.

Managed and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, Coles Brook Pond Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2009. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years. While it does not have a controlled spillway, the dam's design and construction reflect a commitment to safety and reliability in ensuring the protection of the surrounding environment and residents.

With a designated emergency action plan and regular inspection schedule, Coles Brook Pond Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape, providing both recreational opportunities and important water resource management functions. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of this dam are crucial in safeguarding its structural integrity and ensuring the safety of those living downstream.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

COLES BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

2.95

Nid Storage

121

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.