White Current Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

White Current, also known as Ottauquechee Woolen Mill, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Hartland, Vermont, along the Ottauquechee River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1900, this concrete dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a length of 215 feet. With a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet, White Current serves a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, contributing to the renewable energy sector in the region.

The dam is under state jurisdiction and is not regulated or permitted by any state agency. Despite its age, White Current has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in July 2000, with no major issues reported. While the emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are not provided, the dam continues to operate safely and efficiently, offering a glimpse into Vermont's rich history of harnessing water resources for energy production.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, White Current represents a historic landmark in Vermont's hydroelectric infrastructure. Its location along the Ottauquechee River, within the Windsor County region, showcases the potential for sustainable energy generation from flowing water sources. As the state continues to explore renewable energy options, dams like White Current play a significant role in meeting the growing demand for clean electricity while preserving the natural environment.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

215

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

OTTAUQUECHEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

220

Nid Storage

129

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

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.