Sunset Lake, located in Marlboro, Vermont, is a picturesque water supply reservoir that has been serving the local community since 1910. This earth dam structure, standing at a height of 14 feet and a length of 323 feet, holds a storage capacity of 680 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 95 acres. The primary purpose of Sunset Lake is to provide water for the surrounding area, making it a vital resource for both residents and wildlife.

Despite its historical significance and essential role in water supply, Sunset Lake is currently facing challenges. With a poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential, the dam requires regular inspection and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. The last inspection conducted in August 2017 revealed the need for improvements, signaling the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to protect the surrounding community from potential dangers.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the resilience and sustainability of structures like Sunset Lake become increasingly crucial. With its location on Stickney Brook and under the jurisdiction of the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), efforts to enhance its safety, address its condition assessment, and implement emergency preparedness plans are essential to safeguarding this valuable water resource for future generations.