Hardwick Lake

LAMOILLE RIVER· Caledonia, Vermont· Built 1920· Concrete· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Local Government

Key Takeaway

Hardwick Lake is classified as significant hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 52.6% in VT)
Dam Length523 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage2.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area180 acres
Drainage Area122 sq mi
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDVT00186

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: June 16, 2015
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEC

Ownership

HARDWICK ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hardwick Lake?

Hardwick Lake 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 Hardwick Lake?

Hardwick Lake is owned by HARDWICK ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hardwick Lake built?

Hardwick Lake was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Hardwick Lake?

Hardwick Lake 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 Hardwick Lake?

Hardwick Lake has a dam height of 20 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 Hardwick Lake last inspected?

Hardwick Lake was last inspected on June 16, 2015. 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.