Downers Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Downers Mill, also known as Emory Mill Dam, is a private hydroelectric structure located on the Ottauquechee River in Hartford, Vermont.


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Summary

Built in 1983, this gravity dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 140 feet, the dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Downers Mill has a low hazard potential and is categorized with a moderate risk assessment level. While it is not state regulated, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Vermont Public Service Board. The dam has not undergone recent inspections, but its emergency action plan was last revised in 2009.

Despite its age, Downers Mill continues to play a vital role in harnessing the river's energy resources. With its unique multi-arch design and concrete construction, this dam is a notable feature in the Windsor County landscape. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, there is much to appreciate about the engineering and operational aspects of this historic hydroelectric structure in Vermont.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Ottauquechee River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

40

Drainage Area

205

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

14
       
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.