Hardwick Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Hardwick Lake, also known as Jackson Bridge, is a hydroelectric dam located in Hardwick, Vermont, along the scenic Lamoille River.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 523 feet, providing a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet. The dam serves as a vital water resource for the region, with a surface area of 180 acres and a drainage area of 122.1 square miles.

Despite its historical significance and primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, Hardwick Lake faces significant challenges in terms of its structural condition. The dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a hazard potential deemed to be significant. The last inspection conducted in June 2015 revealed the need for improvement, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this important water infrastructure.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and management of dams like Hardwick Lake become increasingly crucial. With a state-regulated and permitted status, the dam is subject to inspection, enforcement, and regulatory oversight by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, there is a need to advocate for the sustainable management and preservation of dams like Hardwick Lake, ensuring their resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

523

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

LAMOILLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

180

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

122.1

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.