Wrightsville Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Middlesex, Vermont, Wrightsville is a state-owned dam designed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1935, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 115 feet and spans 1525 feet along the North Branch Winooski River. With a storage capacity of 36,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 190 acres, Wrightsville serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities.

Despite its high hazard potential, Wrightsville is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam has not been modified in recent years and is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity. While there is no state regulation or permitting in place for this dam, the primary source agency responsible for its management is the state of Vermont. Proactive emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) have not been updated or implemented, highlighting a potential area for improvement in risk management.

As a critical infrastructure in the region, Wrightsville plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding communities from flood events. With its historical significance and multifaceted use, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in Vermont. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Wrightsville will be crucial in safeguarding the local environment and infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

1525

Dam Height

115

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH WINOOSKI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

190

Hydraulic Height

115

Drainage Area

68

Nid Storage

36000

Structural Height

115

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

115
       
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.