Amherst Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Colby Pond Lake Rescue
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Amherst Lake, also known as Lake Amherst, is a privately owned body of water located in Plymouth, Windsor County, Vermont.
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Summary
The lake serves primarily for recreational purposes and is regulated by the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The dam that creates Amherst Lake is made of concrete and has a height of 13 feet, with a hydraulic height and structural height of 13 and 17 feet respectively. The lake has a storage capacity of 1050 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 76 acres, with a drainage area of 19.06 square miles.
Despite its picturesque setting, Amherst Lake poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The last inspection in July 2014 revealed the need for improvement, and the condition was reassessed in March 2021 with no significant changes reported. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is unclear, raising concerns about the readiness to respond to potential emergencies. Given its location and size, maintaining the safety and integrity of Amherst Lake and its dam is crucial to protecting the surrounding environment and ensuring the well-being of nearby communities.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Amherst Lake can observe the intersection of recreational enjoyment with the responsibility of managing and securing a significant water resource. The state-regulated dam on the Echo Lake-TR stream serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and inspection to prevent potential hazards. As efforts continue to assess and address the dam's condition and emergency preparedness, Amherst Lake stands as a symbol of the delicate balance between human activities and environmental stewardship in a changing climate landscape.
Dam Length |
96 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
ECHO LAKE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
76 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
19.06 |
Nid Storage |
1050 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Calvin Coolidge State Park
|
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Greendale Campground
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Greendale
|
Amherst Lake
Headwaters To Crossing Of Route 100 Near Route 155