Abatiell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Abatiell is a recreational dam located in Hubbardton, Vermont, within the Giddings Brook watershed.


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Summary

Constructed in 1970 by the NRCS, this earth dam stands at 19 feet tall and spans a length of 315 feet, providing a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Abatiell is classified as significant in hazard potential and assessed to be in poor condition, with its last inspection conducted in July 2015.

The dam is privately owned and regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures in place. While it is situated in a picturesque setting with a surface area of 4 acres, the dam's condition raises concerns about its ability to withstand potential risks. Given its condition assessment and hazard potential, there is a need for continued monitoring, maintenance, and potentially rehabilitation efforts to ensure the safety and longevity of Abatiell for water resource and climate enthusiasts who enjoy its recreational benefits.

With its location in Rutland County and proximity to the Giddings Brook, Abatiell serves as both a recreational asset and a potential safety concern within the New York District. As stakeholders in water resource management and climate resilience, it is crucial to stay informed about the dam's condition, regulatory oversight, and potential risks associated with its operation. By addressing the poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential, stakeholders can work towards enhancing the safety and sustainability of Abatiell for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

GIDDINGS BROOK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

33

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.