Wolcott

LAMOILLE RIVER· Lamoille, Vermont· Built 1920· Concrete· 48 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Local Government

Key Takeaway

Wolcott is classified as high hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 48 ft (taller than 90.3% in VT)
Dam Length384 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage615 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area12 acres
Drainage Area135 sq mi
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDVT00179

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: December 15, 1992
State Regulated: No

Ownership

HARDWICK ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Wolcott?

Wolcott 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 Wolcott?

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

When was Wolcott built?

Wolcott 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 Wolcott?

Wolcott 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 Wolcott?

Wolcott has a dam height of 48 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 Wolcott last inspected?

Wolcott was last inspected on December 15, 1992. 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.