MORRISVILLE – For generations, Vermonters and visitors alike have paddled the quiet waters of the Green River Reservoir, camped under its dark skies and relied on its steady flow to protect downstream communities. It is one of the jewels of our state, an irreplaceable resource that provides not only a safe and reliable dam, but also clean, renewable power potential and an outdoor recreation economy that brings tens of thousands of people and well over a million dollars to the region every year.
The State of Vermont recently released the Green River Reservoir Dam and Dike Study, prepared by the Department of Environmental Conservation with support from independent engineering and economic experts. The findings should be a wake-up call. The report confirms that the dam is structurally sound, that its maintenance and capital needs are clearly defined and reasonable, and that the economic benefits of the reservoir far outweigh the costs of stewardship. Visitor spending tied to the state park is expected to generate between $22.7 million and $32.7 million over the next two decades, easily covering the costs of maintaining the facility. In short: this dam is safe, affordable to manage and vital to Vermont’s economy and quality of life.
Yet despite this, the future of the Green River Reservoir remains uncertain. That is because, although the dam has long produced renewable energy, state licensing conditions have effectively regulated it out of the market. The irony is hard to ignore. Vermont has set ambitious climate goals and we talk often about our commitment to clean, local energy. Here we have a proven carbon-free resource sitting in our backyard, and state policy has made it economically impossible to continue operating it.
Right now, the responsibility for the dam falls on the 4,000 customers of Morrisville Water & Light. That is a tiny community to carry the weight of a statewide treasure. This is not a local playground; it is a reservoir and state park that belongs in the hearts of Vermonters from every corner. People from all over Vermont, and beyond, benefit from its waters, its trails, and its campsites. To expect a small group of ratepayers, and ultimately taxpayers, to foot the bill for its upkeep is simply unfair.
The state now has a clear choice. It can allow a critical piece of infrastructure, one that meets modern safety standards and supports our shared economy, to languish because a small utility cannot reasonably bear the burden alone. Or it can step forward and take ownership, ensuring that the Green River Reservoir and its dam are maintained for the benefit of all Vermonters.
The report commissioned by the Agency of Natural Resources has done its job. It has given us the facts and removed the uncertainty. What remains is the question of responsibility. The state’s own policies have made it impossible for MWL to operate this renewable resource as originally intended. Now, the state must acknowledge that reality and assume stewardship.
At Morrisville Water & Light, we are ready to work with the administration and legislature to make that transition smooth and successful. Our shared goal should be clear: to protect downstream communities, preserve public access to a beloved park, safeguard a proven source of clean energy, and ensure that the costs of maintaining this resource are fairly distributed across all who benefit.
The Green River Reservoir is safe. Its value is undeniable. Its future, however, depends on Vermont’s willingness to act. It’s time for the state to step up and ensure this landmark continues to serve Vermont for generations to come.
Scott Johnstone is the general manager of Morrisville Water & Light.
