Comtu Falls

Black River· Windsor, Vermont· Built 1902· Gravity· 4 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Comtu Falls is classified as significant hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 4 ft
Dam Length140 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage2 acre-ft
Normal Storage2 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area190 sq mi
Max Discharge13,534 cfs
Year Completed1902 (124 years old)
NID IDVT83029

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 12, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Comtu Falls Corporation

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Comtu Falls?

Comtu Falls 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 Comtu Falls?

Comtu Falls is owned by Comtu Falls Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Comtu Falls built?

Comtu Falls was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Comtu Falls?

Comtu Falls 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 Comtu Falls?

Comtu Falls has a dam height of 4 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 Comtu Falls last inspected?

Comtu Falls was last inspected on August 12, 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.