Upper Chester Reservoir Reservoir Report

Reservoir Report

Vermont

Nearby: Hamm Mine Carey

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Upper Chester Reservoir, located in Chester, Vermont, is a vital water resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation.

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Summary

Built in 1915 along the Williams River, this earth dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 220 feet in length, providing storage of up to 46 acre-feet of water. Despite its historical significance, the reservoir's condition assessment in 2015 rated it as poor with a significant hazard potential, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance.

The primary purpose of Upper Chester Reservoir extends beyond water storage, serving as a recreational area for locals and visitors alike. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles, the reservoir offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. However, the dam's poor condition raises concerns about its long-term sustainability and safety, prompting the need for continued monitoring and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure the community's water supply and recreational enjoyment are safeguarded.

As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, Upper Chester Reservoir remains a critical asset that requires proactive management and investment. With state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the reservoir's future resilience hinges on collaborative efforts between local authorities, environmental agencies, and the community. By addressing the dam's structural issues, enhancing emergency preparedness, and implementing risk management measures, Upper Chester Reservoir can adapt to evolving climate challenges and continue to provide essential water services and recreational opportunities for generations to come.

Year Completed	1915
Dam Length	220
Dam Height	20
River Or Stream	WILLIAMS RIVER-TR
Primary Dam Type	Earth
Surface Area	5
Hydraulic Height	20
Drainage Area	0.6
Nid Storage	46
Structural Height	20
Hazard Potential	Significant
Foundations	Rock, Soil
Nid Height	20

Explore Interactive Map

UPPER CHESTER RESERVOIR

Reservoir Report • Water Levels • Weather Forecast

December 14, 2025

Year_Completed	1915
Dam_Length	220
Dam_Height	20
River_Or_Stream	WILLIAMS RIVER-TR
Primary_Dam_Type	Earth
Surface_Area	5
Hydraulic_Height	20
Drainage_Area	0.6
Nid_Storage	46
Structural_Height	20
Hazard_Potential	Significant
Foundations	Rock, Soil
Nid_Height	20

Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Nearby Streamflow Levels

Black River At North Springfield 175.0cfs	175cfs
Williams River Near Rockingham Vt 78.2cfs	78cfs
Saxtons River At Saxtons River 19.1cfs	19cfs
West River At Jamaica 154.0cfs	154cfs
Connecticut River At North Walpole 2570.0cfs	2570cfs
Sugar River At West Claremont 95.9cfs	96cfs

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.