Adams Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Adams Reservoir, also known as Burrington, is a state-owned recreational water resource located in Woodford, Vermont.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1948, this earth dam stands at 21 feet in height and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 453 acre-feet and a surface area of 24 acres. Situated on Red Mill Pond Brook, Adams Reservoir offers a tranquil environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking amidst the picturesque surroundings of Bennington County.

Despite its recreational appeal, Adams Reservoir poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of 2015. The dam's inspection frequency is set at every three years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2015. While the reservoir's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unclear, its regulatory oversight by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation ensures that necessary permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities are in place to safeguard the surrounding community in the event of a dam-related emergency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Adams Reservoir serves as a reminder of the critical role that proper infrastructure maintenance and risk assessment play in protecting both natural ecosystems and human populations. As efforts to enhance the dam's condition and emergency preparedness continue, this scenic reservoir stands as a testament to the delicate balance between conservation and recreation in Vermont's vibrant water landscape.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

RED MILL POND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

1.28

Nid Storage

453

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.