West Hill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

West Hill Pond, located in Cabot, Vermont, is a picturesque water body with a rich history dating back to 1820.


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Summary

The dam, designed by Avery Atkins, stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 212 feet, creating a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet for recreational purposes. The pond covers an area of 46 acres and is fed by the Jug Brook-TR stream, making it a vital resource for the surrounding community.

Despite its scenic beauty and recreational value, West Hill Pond poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam's structural integrity and maintenance are areas of concern, as indicated by a recent inspection in August 2019. The state regulatory agency DEC oversees the pond's operation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure the safety of its users and surrounding environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be drawn to West Hill Pond not only for its natural charm but also for the challenges it faces in maintaining its infrastructure and safety standards. As discussions around risk management measures and emergency preparedness continue, the pond serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1820

Dam Length

212

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

JUG BROOK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

2.31

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.