Milton Reservoir Report
Nearby: Clark Falls Peterson
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Milton, also known as Great Falls Dam, is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in West Milton, Vermont.
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Summary
Built in 1929, this concrete gravity dam stands at 25 feet tall and spans 144 feet in length, harnessing the power of the Lamoille River to generate clean energy. With a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 83,000 cubic feet per second, Milton plays a crucial role in providing renewable energy to the region.
Managed by a public utility, Milton falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and is not subject to state regulation. Despite its low hazard potential, Milton poses a very high risk due to its age and the lack of recent condition assessments. The dam's controlled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its safe operation and the surrounding area's protection from potential flooding events. As an essential part of Vermont's water infrastructure, Milton serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable energy production and resource management in the face of a changing climate.
Overall, Milton stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early hydroelectric engineering and the ongoing need for responsible maintenance and regulation of water resources. Its historical significance and continued operation in the modern era highlight the intersection of environmental conservation, renewable energy production, and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we must continue to monitor and support structures like Milton to ensure their long-term viability and contribution to a sustainable future.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
144 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Lamoille River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
690 |
Nid Storage |
93 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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 |
|---|---|---|
Scouts Point
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Appletree Bay Campground
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Grand Isle State Park
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Burton Island
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North Beach
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Milton
Lake Champlain At Burlington
Highbridge Road 3065, Georgia