North Branch Dam
Key Takeaway
North Branch Dam is classified as high hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 75 ft (taller than 95.5% in VT) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 65 acres |
| Drainage Area | 29 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,440 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| NID ID | VT00286 |
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
USACE - New England District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Springfield Reservoir
Windsor, VT
Significant Hazard 49 ftNorth Springfield Dam
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High Hazard 118 ftCooks Pond
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Low Hazard 11 ftCarey
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Significant Hazard 26 ftFellows
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Low Hazard 10 ftComtu Falls
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Significant Hazard 4 ftHowland
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Significant Hazard 25 ftWindsor Minerals Pond #10
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Low Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Branch Dam?
North Branch Dam 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 North Branch Dam?
North Branch Dam is owned by USACE - New England District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was North Branch Dam built?
North Branch Dam was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 North Branch Dam?
North Branch Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is North Branch Dam?
North Branch Dam has a dam height of 75 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 North Branch Dam last inspected?
North Branch Dam was last inspected on May 2, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.