Delaney Complex Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Delaney Complex in Stow, Massachusetts, is a state-regulated dam that was completed in 1967 for flood risk reduction along the Elizabeth Brook.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond and recreational area. The Earth type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a hydraulic height of 4 feet, providing storage capacity of 3980 acre-feet and a surface area of 163 acres.
The dam, owned by the state of Massachusetts, is inspected every 5 years and was last assessed in March 2017, with a satisfactory condition rating. Despite the significant hazard potential, risk at the Delaney Complex is considered moderate. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has not been modified in recent years. Located in Middlesex County, the Delaney Complex plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region, under the oversight of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Enthusiasts of water resource management and climate resilience will find the Delaney Complex an intriguing example of infrastructure designed to balance flood protection with environmental conservation and recreational opportunities. With its strategic location in Stow and its contribution to the local ecosystem, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in adapting to changing climate conditions. The Delaney Complex showcases the collaborative efforts between state agencies and local communities in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
ELIZABETH BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
163 |
Hydraulic Height |
4 |
Drainage Area |
14.9 |
Nid Storage |
3980 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Delaney Complex
Harvard Road 314, Stow