Stedman Marsh Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Stedman Marsh Dam, located in Monterey, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, is a privately-owned concrete dam primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 8 feet with a hydraulic height of 6 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 181.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 30 acres. The dam, built with a buttress core type, serves as a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region.

Despite its importance, Stedman Marsh Dam has a poor condition assessment and a low hazard potential, indicating the need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The last inspection in March 2017 revealed its poor condition, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management measures and potentially an emergency action plan to address any safety concerns.

With a moderate risk rating and a lack of updated emergency preparedness measures, Stedman Marsh Dam presents a unique challenge for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a vital component of the local water supply infrastructure, it is essential to prioritize its maintenance and security to prevent any potential hazards or disruptions to the surrounding community. The dam's location, design, and condition make it a focal point for ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

Dam Length

320.32

Dam Height

8

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

0.37

Nid Storage

181.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.