Vail Reservoir Report
Nearby: Great Falls Pierce Mills
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Vail, also known as Vail Station, is a picturesque hydroelectric dam located in Lyndon, Vermont along the Passumpsic River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1910, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 125 feet. It has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, with its last inspection dating back to September 1997.
Owned by the local government, Vail plays a crucial role in the region's water management and hydroelectric power generation. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric, and it is designed as a multi-arch structure with a foundation on rock. While it is not regulated by the state or the US Army Corps of Engineers, Vail serves as a key component in the local water infrastructure, providing essential services to the community. The dam's location in the Caledonia County of Vermont adds to its significance in the area's water resource management.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Vail represents a unique blend of historical significance and modern functionality. With its serene surroundings and strategic location on the Passumpsic River, the dam stands as a testament to the region's commitment to sustainable energy production and water conservation. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's low hazard potential and long-standing presence underscore its importance in the local ecosystem. As efforts continue to assess and maintain Vail's structural integrity, it remains a symbol of the enduring connection between water resources and environmental stewardship in the Vermont region.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
PASSUMPSIC RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
220 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Vail