Carver Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carver Falls Dam Old Marsh Pond
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Carver Falls, located in Whitehall, NY, is a stunning hydroelectric dam built in 1894 on the Poultney River.
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Summary
The dam stands at 34 feet high and spans 514 feet in length, with a controlled spillway width of 357 feet. With a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 6900 cubic feet per second, Carver Falls plays a crucial role in providing renewable energy to the region.
Despite its age, Carver Falls has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, indicating a well-maintained structure with minimal risk of failure. The dam is federally regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its continued safe operation. With its vertical lift outlet gates and concrete gravity structure, Carver Falls stands as a testament to the engineering ingenuity of its time, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to marvel at its historic significance and sustainable energy production capabilities.
As a public utility owned by the state of Vermont, Carver Falls serves as a prime example of how hydroelectric power can contribute to a clean energy future while respecting environmental regulations and safety standards. The dam's location within the New York District of the US Army Corps of Engineers further underscores its importance as a key infrastructure asset for water resource management in the region. With its impressive history, efficient design, and commitment to sustainability, Carver Falls continues to be a shining example of responsible water resource development in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1894 |
Dam Length |
514 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
Poultney River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
184 |
Nid Storage |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bomoseen State Park
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Half Moon Pond State Park
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St. Catherine State Park
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Carver Falls
Skenesborough Drive 4, Whitehall