In April 2021, risk reduction measures were implemented at Amherst Lake Dam in Plymouth. A brief overview of these measures and other considerations are provided below. For more information, please refer to the 2021 Dam Safety Inspection Report and the Water Control Plan.
“On this day, we remember the lessons learned from past dam failures, push for strong dam safety programs, encourage investment in America's critical infrastructure and rededicate ourselves to the effective public-private partnerships that work to keep America's dams safe, operational and resilient.” – Association of State Dam Safety Officials
State Statute 10 V.S.A Chapter 43: Dams governs the regulation of dams at the State level. Therefore, Chapter 43 applies to dams regulated by both the Dam Safety Program and the Public Utility Commission.
The Water Investment Division coordinates investment of State and federal funding to all types of clean water and drinking water infrastructure in Vermont. The Division manages the federal Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF) for clean water and drinking water infrastructure, and the Department’s proportion of annual state Clean Water Fund and Capital Fund dollars that support water infrastructure throughout Vermont. The Division coordinates annual reporting for all funds, publishing annual State Revolving Fund, Clean Water Investment, and Tactical Basin Planning Rep
Introduction: The Water Investment Division coordinates investment of State and federal funding to all types of clean water and drinking water infrastrcuture in Vermont. The Division manages the State Revolving Loan Funds (SRF) for clean water and drinking water infrastructure, and the Department’s proportion of annual Clean Water Fund and Capital Fund dollars that support water infrastructure throughout Vermont. The Division coordinates annual reporting for all funds, publishing annual State Revolving Fund, Clean Water Investment, and Tact
Owners of dams capable of impounding more than 500,000 cubic feet of water are responsible for the payment of the annual fee based on the hazard class of the dam. The Dam Safety Program has an active program of dam safety inspections that will be supported with these fees in combination with general funds supported by all Vermont taxpayers. This will ensure continued service to the regulated community in Vermont and to fulfill DEC’s mission: to preserve, enhance, restore and conserve Vermont’s natural resources and protect human health for the benefit of this and future generations.
It is important that the prospective dam owner gather as much information as possible about an existing dam before making a decision on acquiring it. The storage of large amounts of water is a hazardous activity. It exposes the owner to tort liability. The owner’s best and only defense is that the owner has done all that could be expected in terms of operation, maintenance, routine inspection, and hazard mitigation including emergency action planning.
Water Investment Division Home Page
Division Quick Link Pages:
Vermont municipalities, regional organizations, nonprofit associations, citizen groups, and state agencies work together to get funds on the ground. See below for grant opportunities offered in partnership with the Clean Water Initiative Program, either by our block grant recipients or the Department of Fish & Wildlife.
The Dam Safety Program conducts periodic safety inspections of non-federal, non-hydroelectric dams to determine their condition and the extent, if any, to which they pose a potential or actual threat to life and property. The Department’s current policy is to inspect only those dams that are capable of impounding more than 500,000 cubic feet. An inspection report with recommendations is provided to the owner and also kept on file by the Dam Safety Program.
