Pelletier Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Pelletier, located in Rutland, Vermont, is a historic masonry dam built in 1890 for recreational purposes on the picturesque Breton Brook.


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Summary

Managed and regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Pelletier stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 180 feet, providing a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential but is currently assessed as being in poor condition as of its last inspection in July 2015.

With a surface area of 10.6 acres and a drainage area of 13.37 square miles, Pelletier offers a tranquil recreational spot for visitors to enjoy. The dam's condition assessment, last conducted in 2015, indicates the need for maintenance and potentially a risk management plan to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam is under state jurisdiction and permits, inspections, and enforcement are carried out by the DEC, highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure in Vermont.

As a vital part of Vermont's water infrastructure, Pelletier serves as both a recreational destination and a crucial piece of the state's water management system. Its historical significance and scenic surroundings make it a valuable asset to the community, requiring ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and longevity for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

BRETON BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

10.6

Drainage Area

13.37

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.