Somerset Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Somerset is a private hydroelectric facility located in Searsburg, Vermont, along the East Branch Deerfield River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1913, this dam stands at 110 feet in height and spans 2101 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 57,345 acre-feet, it serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 27,000 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 192 feet.

Despite its age, Somerset has a high hazard potential due to its location and structural characteristics. Although its condition assessment is not available, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, who conducts inspections and oversees its operations. The risk assessment for Somerset is moderate, indicating potential risks that need to be managed. Emergency action plans and inundation maps are crucial components in ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding area in the event of a dam failure.

Overall, Somerset plays a significant role in Vermont's water resource management, providing clean energy and recreational opportunities while also posing potential risks that require careful monitoring and management. As a key component of the state's infrastructure, Somerset underscores the importance of balancing the benefits of hydroelectric power with the need for proper maintenance and risk mitigation strategies in the face of climate change and evolving water resource challenges.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

2101

Dam Height

110

River Or Stream

East Branch Deerfield River

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

1514

Drainage Area

30

Nid Storage

57345

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

110
       
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.