Pownal Tannery Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

The Pownal Tannery, also known as the Pownal Tanning Co.


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Summary

Dam, is a hydroelectric structure located on the Hoosic River in Bennington, Vermont. Constructed in 1984, this gravity dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 153 feet. With a storage capacity of 490 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5987 cubic feet per second, this dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the Pownal Tannery dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While not currently regulated by the state, the dam is inspected every three years, with the last inspection taking place in July 2019. The spillway, with a width of 143 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Pownal Tannery dam an intriguing structure, with its role in harnessing renewable hydroelectric energy and its impact on the surrounding environment. As a notable feature on the Hoosic River, this gravity dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and natural resources in Vermont's landscape.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

153

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Hoosic River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

77

Drainage Area

224

Nid Storage

490

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.