NORTHAMPTON — Repair and removal of existing dams in Hampshire and Franklin counties, along with improvements to Holyoke’s levee control system and repairs to the pump station, are being supported by more than $1.04 million from the state’s Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ Dam and Seawall program.

The recent announcement of almost $14 million in grants from the Healey-Driscoll administration is providing Amherst $250,000 to design repairs for the dam and dike at Puffer’s Pond in North Amherst, with $220,724 going to Northampton to rehabilitate the Francis P. Ryan Reservoir and West Whately Reservoir dam. Northampton previously received $250,000 from the program to improve embankment and spillway conditions at both reservoirs.

In addition, $250,000 is being provided to the Connecticut River Conservancy to design the removal of the D.F. Riley Grist Mill Dam in Hatfield, a dam that has been identified by the National Inventory of Dams as at risk of failing, and Chesterfield is getting $136,500 for engineering and permitting for future repairs to the dam at Damon Pond.

The city of Holyoke’s grant is for $187,500 to improve the levee control system and for pump station repairs.

The Puffer’s Pond money will go toward addressing vegetation growth, erosion and structural vulnerabilities, and preserving the site for activities including fishing and swimming.

Assistant Town Manager David Ziomek said this will help address problems at the site that he calls being “loved to death” due to the thousands of users annually.

“As we work to find the right balance between preservation and public access, these repairs will enhance the safety and stability of the area while also protecting the vital ecosystems within,” Ziomek said.

The 32-foot high dam was built in the 1890s to provide power to mill operations, while the dike is a 4-foot-high earthen embankment structure, possibly built at the same time.

“Investing in the upkeep and protection of this site is not just an environmental necessity, it’s a commitment to the well-being of our community for generations to come,” said Town Manager Paul Bockelman.

Since Dam and Seawall program was established in 2013, it has provided over $134 million in grants and loans to repair or remove deficient dams, seawalls and levees.

Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.