Moretown No. 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Moretown No.


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Summary

8 is a private hydroelectric dam located in Waterbury, Vermont, along the picturesque Mad River. Built in 1910, this concrete gravity dam stands at 31 feet tall and stretches 333 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Despite being regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is not under state jurisdiction or permitting. It has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway is 164 feet wide, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 13,721 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 143 square miles and a surface area of 36 acres, Moretown No. 8 plays a crucial role in harnessing the water resources of the region for hydroelectric purposes. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam undergoes inspections every three years, with the last one conducted in June 2018.

Overall, Moretown No. 8 is a significant structure in Vermont's water infrastructure, contributing to the state's renewable energy production. Its historical significance and operational efficiency make it a key player in the sustainable management of water resources and climate adaptation efforts in the region. As an enthusiast of water resources and climate issues, exploring the intricacies of this hydroelectric dam can deepen our understanding of the intersection between energy generation, water management, and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

333

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

Mad River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

36

Drainage Area

143

Nid Storage

200

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
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.