The North Springfield Dam, also known as North Springfield Lake, is a gravity dam located on the Black River in Springfield, Vermont.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1960 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction and recreational purposes. With a height of 118 feet and a storage capacity of 76,500 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding risks to surrounding communities.
Although the dam significantly reduces the risk of flooding, there are still potential hazards associated with high volume releases from the spillway during significant storm events. In a worst-case scenario where the dam fails, downstream flooding could be swift and deep, resulting in loss of life and destruction of buildings and infrastructure in communities along the Black River. Despite being classified as having a moderate risk, the US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages and monitors the dam to prioritize activities that will most impact risk reduction, and regularly updates the emergency action plan to ensure readiness in case of a dam-related emergency.
Overall, the North Springfield Dam plays a critical role in flood risk management in the region, and continuous efforts are made to ensure its safety and effectiveness in protecting downstream communities. While the risk of failure remains low, it is essential to have robust emergency preparedness measures in place to respond effectively in the unlikely event of a dam-related emergency.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
2940 |
Dam Height |
118 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
100 |
Hydraulic Height |
113 |
Drainage Area |
158 |
Nid Storage |
76500 |
Structural Height |
118 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
118 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tree Farm Campground
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Ascutney Mt Stone Hut
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Mt. Ascutney State Park
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Horseshoe Acres Campground
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