Beldens East Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Beldens East is a historic hydroelectric dam located in Weybridge, Vermont, along the picturesque Otter Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1913, this gravity dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans 56 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. It serves as a vital source of renewable energy in the region, with a maximum discharge of 775 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 45 feet, ensuring efficient water management.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Beldens East has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. While it is not state-regulated, the dam falls under federal jurisdiction and plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and water resources.

With its historical significance and key role in hydroelectric power generation, Beldens East serves as a symbol of sustainable energy practices and water resource management. As climate change continues to impact our environment, dams like Beldens East play a crucial role in ensuring water security and renewable energy production for future generations to come.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

56

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Otter Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

22

Drainage Area

632.5

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.