Chittenden Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Chittenden Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1901 and is 125 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 51 ft (taller than 91.6% in VT) |
| Dam Length | 967 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 22.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 693 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1901 (125 years old) |
| NID ID | VT00178 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
GREEN MOUNTAIN POWER CORP
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Lefferts Pond West
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Low Hazard 16 ftRutland City Reservoir Dike
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Low Hazard 9 ftRutland City Reservoir
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High Hazard 41 ftGlen
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Low Hazard 31 ftColton Pond
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Significant Hazard 19 ftPatch Pond
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Significant Hazard 30 ftDunklee Pond
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chittenden Reservoir?
Chittenden Reservoir is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Chittenden Reservoir?
Chittenden Reservoir is owned by GREEN MOUNTAIN POWER CORP (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chittenden Reservoir built?
Chittenden Reservoir was completed in 1901, making it 125 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 Chittenden Reservoir?
Chittenden Reservoir 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 Chittenden Reservoir?
Chittenden Reservoir has a dam height of 51 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 Chittenden Reservoir last inspected?
Chittenden Reservoir was last inspected on January 1, 1987. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.