Ware Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Ware Lower is a historic masonry dam located on the Ware River in Ware, Massachusetts.


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Summary

Built in 1890, this hydroelectric facility has a dam height of 18 feet and a length of 116 feet, providing a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 2080 cubic feet per second, the dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.

Managed by a private owner, Ware Lower is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 116 feet and is inspected every three years to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its age, Ware Lower continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Hampshire County, Ware Lower serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging dams for both hydroelectric production and flood control. With its rich history and strategic location on the Ware River, this dam stands as a testament to the enduring significance of water resources in shaping the landscape and supporting sustainable development in Massachusetts.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

116

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Ware River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

167

Nid Storage

110

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.