The state’s infrastructure repair fund has allocated $14 million for dam and seawall repairs, with $1.04 million going to Western Massachusetts. Many local dams, like the one at Puffer’s Pond in Amherst, are over 130 years old and in need of structural repairs. Climate change is exacerbating the risk of dam failures due to increased rainfall and storms. Memories of past disasters, like the 1874 Mill River flood, serve as a reminder of the potential devastation caused by dam breaks.
Christine Hatch, a UMass Amherst professor and hydrologist, notes that existing infrastructure is not equipped to handle today’s floodwaters and emphasizes the importance of maintaining and updating infrastructure. In some cases, the best solution is to remove old dams, as seen with the D.F. Riley Grist Milldam in Hatfield. Removing outdated dams can improve environmental health and reduce the risk of catastrophic failures.
Several towns, including Northampton and Southampton, have already removed old dams due to safety concerns and costly repairs. The decision to remove aging dams not only makes financial sense but also has the potential to save lives in the event of future storms. The state has allocated funds for the demolition of dams in Hardwick, Athol, Brookfield, and Windsor, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety and infrastructure updates in the face of climate change.
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