Roaring Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Roaring Brook Dam, located in Conway, Massachusetts, is a vital water resource structure maintained by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, the dam stands at a height of 65 feet and serves primarily for water supply purposes. With a storage capacity of 553 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the Roaring Brook, a vital stream in the region.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections ensure its safety and functionality, with the last assessment conducted in July 2016. Despite its moderate risk assessment level, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped to handle emergencies, although details on the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are currently unspecified.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Roaring Brook Dam presents a case study in effective water management and infrastructure maintenance. Its strategic location, design, and storage capacity make it a critical asset for the local community, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource practices in mitigating climate-related risks and ensuring water security for future generations.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

435

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

ROARING BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

60.5

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

553

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

65
       
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.