Swanton Reservoir Report
Nearby: Highgate Falls Sheldon Springs
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Swanton, located in Franklin, Vermont, is a hydroelectric dam on the Missisquoi River with a primary purpose of generating power.
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Summary
Constructed in 1920, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet. Despite its age, Swanton is still state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
The dam, with a length of 410 feet and a surface area of 150 acres, serves as a vital component of the region's water resource management. Although classified as having a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating a need for potential maintenance or upgrades in the future. The last inspection conducted in 2004 highlighted this assessment, emphasizing the importance of proper risk management measures for this essential infrastructure.
Swanton's role in harnessing the power of the Missisquoi River for hydroelectric purposes underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As enthusiasts in these fields, understanding the significance of maintaining and improving structures like Swanton is crucial for sustainable energy production and environmental conservation in the face of changing climates.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
MISSISQUOI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
150 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
847 |
Nid Storage |
2400 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Swanton
Moreau Drive Swanton