Bradford

Waits River· Orange, Vermont· Built 1905· Concrete· 52 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Bradford is classified as significant hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1905 and is 121 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 52 ft (taller than 92.5% in VT)
Dam Length196 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage54 acre-ft
Normal Storage54 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area150 sq mi
Max Discharge19,000 cfs
Year Completed1905 (121 years old)
NID IDVT00044

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 9, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Green Mountain Power Corporation

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bradford?

Bradford is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Bradford?

Bradford is owned by Green Mountain Power Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Bradford built?

Bradford was completed in 1905, making it 121 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Bradford?

Bradford serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bradford?

Bradford has a dam height of 52 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Bradford last inspected?

Bradford was last inspected on August 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.