Sheldon Springs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Sheldon Springs, located in East Highgate, Vermont, is a private hydroelectric facility situated along the Missisquoi River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, completed in 1908, stands at 38 feet tall and spans 283 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet. The facility boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 218 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 3822 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial player in the region's water resource management.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Sheldon Springs operates with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. While the structure's condition assessment is currently unavailable, it undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Despite its age, Sheldon Springs remains a reliable source of hydroelectric power, contributing to the sustainable energy landscape in Franklin County, Vermont.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate sustainability will find Sheldon Springs to be a fascinating case study in historical dam infrastructure and modern hydroelectric operations. With its strategic location, efficient design, and regulatory oversight, the facility serves as a key player in the region's water management efforts, showcasing the intersection of technology, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

283

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Missisquoi River

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

175

Drainage Area

794

Nid Storage

750

Outlet Gates

Flap - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
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.