Ottauquechee East Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ottauquechee East Dam, located in West Woodstock, Vermont, is a privately owned concrete gravity dam built in 1986 for hydroelectric purposes on the Ottauquechee River.


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Summary

With a height of 7 feet and a length of 120 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet and a drainage area of 221 square miles. The structure is regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating a moderate level of risk associated with its operation. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam has not undergone any recent modifications and is considered to meet safety guidelines. Emergency action plans are in place, with the last revision in December 2016, to ensure preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. The dam also features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet to manage excess water flow.

Overall, Ottauquechee East Dam plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power and managing water resources in the region. With its strategic location and reliable operation, the dam serves as a key infrastructure asset contributing to the sustainable development of the area while ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Ottauquechee River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

22

Drainage Area

221

Nid Storage

129

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.