Schoolhouse Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Schoolhouse Lake Dam in Lee, Massachusetts, stands as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Washington Mountain Brook.


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Summary

Built in 1986 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam boasts a height of 63 feet and a hydraulic height of 54.5 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 1650 acre-feet to manage the 2.9 square mile drainage area. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife pond creation, and recreation opportunities, making it a cornerstone of water resource management in Berkshire County.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment in 2016, Schoolhouse Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, paired with a moderate risk assessment, highlight the importance of continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. With its location in the picturesque city of Lee and the support of local and state agencies, Schoolhouse Lake Dam remains a key element in protecting the community against flooding events and enhancing water resources for future generations.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Schoolhouse Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk mitigation. With its historical significance as a flood risk reduction structure and its ongoing regulatory oversight by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water infrastructure, environmental conservation, and community safety. By delving into the details of its design, construction, and purpose, stakeholders can gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

63

River Or Stream

WASHINGTON MTN BK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38.4

Hydraulic Height

54.5

Drainage Area

2.9

Nid Storage

1650

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

63
       
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.