Nichols
Key Takeaway
Nichols is classified as high hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 18 ft (taller than 46% in VT) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 167 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | VT00184 |
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
HARDWICK ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 20 ftSouth Woodbury Pond
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Significant Hazard 16 ftWoodbury Upper
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Significant Hazard 15 ftRichards
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Significant Hazard 11 ftMarshfield No. 6
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High Hazard 48 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nichols?
Nichols 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 Nichols?
Nichols is owned by HARDWICK ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nichols built?
Nichols was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Nichols?
Nichols serves the following purposes: Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nichols?
Nichols has a dam height of 18 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 Nichols last inspected?
Nichols was last inspected on June 27, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.