Chace Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Chace Mill, also known as the American Woolen Dam or Winooski One Dam, is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in Burlington, Vermont along the picturesque Winooski River.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this gravity dam stands at a height of 29 feet and stretches 240 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet. Completed in 1993, Chace Mill serves as a vital source of renewable energy in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 30,000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Chace Mill's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a prime example of sustainable water resource management. With a spillway width of 180 feet and controlled outlet gates, this dam ensures efficient water flow while minimizing potential risks to the surrounding environment. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment remains unavailable, but its last inspection in May 2019 indicated a satisfactory operational status.

Overall, Chace Mill stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its focus on hydroelectric power generation and adherence to regulatory guidelines, this dam plays a crucial role in the sustainable development of the region's water infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Chace Mill serves as a shining example of how innovative engineering can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Winooski River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

50

Drainage Area

1060

Nid Storage

34

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.
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