Beldens West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Beldens West, a hydroelectric dam located in Weybridge, Vermont, has been in operation since 1913 and is managed by a public utility agency.


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Summary

The dam stands at 15 feet high and has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam plays a crucial role in utilizing the natural resources of the Otter Creek to produce clean energy for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Beldens West is a gravity dam with a length of 57 feet and a spillway width of 47 feet. Its location in Addison County, Vermont, within the New York District, contributes to the overall water resource management of the area. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam undergoes inspections every 3 years to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

The dam's association with the Otter Creek and its significant drainage area of 632.5 square miles highlight its importance in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region. As a key player in the local energy infrastructure, Beldens West serves as a model for sustainable hydroelectric power generation while maintaining a balance between environmental conservation and energy production.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

57

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Otter Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

22

Drainage Area

632.5

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.