Chestnut Hill Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Chestnut Hill Reservoir, located in Brattleboro, Vermont, is a concrete dam with a primary purpose of water supply for the surrounding area.
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Summary
Completed in 1884, this historic structure stands at 25 feet tall and spans 920 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet. Situated on Whetstone Brook, the reservoir is owned and regulated by the local government, with state oversight from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation.
Despite its age and historical significance, Chestnut Hill Reservoir faces challenges in terms of its condition and hazard potential. A recent inspection in June 2017 revealed a poor condition assessment, earning it a high hazard potential rating. With a lack of emergency action plans and updated risk assessments, there are concerns about the reservoir's ability to withstand potential disasters or emergencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure to ensure the safety and reliability of our water supply systems. With ongoing regulatory oversight and potential risk management measures needed, the future of this historic dam remains a topic of interest and concern for those invested in sustainable water resource management.
Year Completed |
1884 |
Dam Length |
920 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
WHETSTONE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Chestnut Hill Reservoir