Jewell Brook Site No. 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Jewell Brook Site No.


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Summary

5, also known as Sanders Brook, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Ludlow, Vermont. This flood risk reduction dam was completed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS and stands at an impressive height of 113 feet. With a storage capacity of 262 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.8 acres, this earth dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flooding in the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, Jewell Brook Site No. 5 boasts a high hazard potential but is currently rated as in fair condition. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential flood protection services to the community. With regular inspections and a risk assessment indicating a moderate risk level, efforts are being made to ensure the continued safety and effectiveness of this important water infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is fascinating to see the intersection of engineering, environmental regulation, and emergency preparedness at Jewell Brook Site No. 5. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns. As stewards of our natural resources, it is crucial to monitor and maintain infrastructure like Jewell Brook Site No. 5 to safeguard both the environment and local communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

113

River Or Stream

SANDERS BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.8

Hydraulic Height

110

Drainage Area

1.74

Nid Storage

262

Structural Height

113

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

113
       
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.