Summary
Croix River. Built in 1967, this concrete dam stands at a height of 20.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 214,470 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 187,100 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric generation, utilizing a controlled spillway and two radial Tainter gates for water release.
With a drainage area of 417 square miles, the Vanceboro dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 13,400 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam poses a significant hazard potential and is categorized as having a very high risk level. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees regulatory and inspection activities for this dam, ensuring its safe operation. The dam's emergency action plan was last reviewed in 2015, and while the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted to monitor its structural integrity.
Overall, Vanceboro's hydroelectric dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and renewable energy production in the region. Its impact on the local ecosystem, water flow regulation, and energy generation highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring this essential infrastructure for the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
469 |
Dam Height |
20.5 |
River Or Stream |
St. Croix River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
18250 |
Drainage Area |
417 |
Nid Storage |
214470 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Vanceboro