Martins Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Martins Pond, located in Peacham, Vermont, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Department of Fish & Wildlife.


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Summary

The dam at Martins Pond, completed in 1958, serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a concrete structure standing at 10 feet high and 142 feet long. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 revealed it to be in poor condition, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and potential maintenance.

With a storage capacity of 580 acre-feet and a surface area of 77 acres, Martins Pond offers a tranquil setting for various recreational activities. The dam's association with the Stevens River-TR provides a unique ecosystem for water and climate enthusiasts to explore. However, the dam's poor condition assessment and outdated inspection frequency raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of the reservoir and emphasize the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures to ensure its continued functionality and safety.

As a vital part of Vermont's water infrastructure, Martins Pond serves as not only a recreational hub but also a critical resource for environmental conservation and wildlife preservation. The involvement of the state regulatory agency DEC in overseeing the dam's operations highlights the commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of this essential water source. Moving forward, proactive measures and investments in maintaining and improving the dam's condition will be crucial in preserving Martins Pond's ecological integrity for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

142

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

STEVENS RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

77

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

1.26

Nid Storage

580

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.