Button Shop Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Button Shop Dam #2, located in Northampton, Massachusetts, serves as a key recreational water resource along the Mill River.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, providing a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. The dam, primarily designed for recreation, offers a surface area of 4.5 acres and normal storage of 13.5 acre-feet, making it a popular spot for water enthusiasts in the region.

Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated and permitted by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts. Despite being assessed as in fair condition during its last inspection in 1998, the dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With a moderate risk assessment level, the dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area, drawing attention to the importance of responsible dam management and safety precautions for recreational use.

As a part of the New England District, Button Shop Dam #2 plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in Hampshire County. With its historical significance and recreational value, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human enjoyment and ensuring the safety and integrity of the surrounding ecosystem. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the complex infrastructure and regulatory framework that governs this dam, highlighting the intersection of human activity and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for future generations.

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

MILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

4.5

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

35

Nid Storage

40

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.