May Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crystal Lake Paine Site No. 2
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
May Pond, located in Orleans, Vermont, is a picturesque masonry dam structure built in 1900 primarily for water supply purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 7 feet with a hydraulic height of 7 feet, providing a storage capacity of 325 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential but is currently in poor condition, last inspected in June 2011. The dam is regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
May Pond Brook serves as the primary source of water for the dam, with a drainage area of 1.7 square miles and a surface area of 116 acres. The dam's location in Barton, Vermont, adds to the charm of the surrounding landscape, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts. Being a local government-owned structure, May Pond plays a crucial role in supplying water to the community while also serving as a recreational spot for residents and visitors. Despite its current poor condition, efforts are likely underway to restore and maintain the dam's integrity for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.
With its historical significance and vital role in water supply, May Pond remains a valuable asset in the region. The dam's association with May Pond Brook and its contribution to the local water system highlight the importance of proper management and maintenance of such structures. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and sustainability of dams like May Pond is paramount. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, local authorities, and the community will be essential in safeguarding this vital water resource and preserving its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
MAY POND BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
116 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
1.7 |
Nid Storage |
325 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
May Pond
Lake Street Barton