Updated Public Safety Plan for Slack Dam

Strategic Insights -

The Springfield Hydroelectric Company has submitted an updated Public Safety Plan for the Slack Dam, a low-head, run-of-the-river hydroelectric project on the Black River in Springfield, Vermont. The plan aims to ensure public safety by warning the public about the potential hazards of the project, while also allowing for public access for recreational fishing. The plan includes measures such as posted signs, automatic outdoor nighttime lighting, and a low-key approach to public safety. The project is classified as a low hazard structure and presents little public safety threat due to its small size, location, and layout.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Slack Dam is a 400 KW hydroelectric project exempted from Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing due to its small size and low head.
  • The dam is classified as a low hazard structure, with 20 feet of head and located in a natural gorge upstream, making it inaccessible to the public.
  • The project has a low-key approach to public safety, allowing for public access for fishing while warning the public to keep away from the project works.
  • Warning signs are posted at the gate, property perimeter, intake structure, transformer, and powerhouse, while automatic outdoor nighttime lighting is provided.
  • The site has parking and restricted vehicular access, with posted signs to warn the public of the potential hazards.
  • Arion Thiboumery submitted the plan on behalf of the Springfield Hydroelectric Company.

Statistics:

  • The Slack Dam is a 400 KW hydroelectric project.
  • The dam has 20 feet of head.
  • The project is exempted from FERC licensing due to its small size and low head.

Sources:

  • Springfield Hydroelectric Company (2025) - Updated Public Safety Plan for Slack Dam, FERC Project No. P-8014VT.