Browns Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Enosburg Falls Fairfield Swamp Pond
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Browns Pond, also known as Penders Mill, is a privately owned water resource located in Bakersfield, Vermont.
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Summary
The dam associated with the pond was completed in 1920 and serves multiple purposes with a primary dam type of concrete. This multi-arch dam has a height of 22 feet and a length of 82 feet, providing a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet.
The dam is regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been formally assessed since 1998. Additionally, there is limited information available regarding emergency action plans, risk assessments, and other important management measures.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Browns Pond will find a unique opportunity to explore the history and engineering behind this concrete gravity dam. With a rich heritage dating back to the early 20th century, this structure continues to play a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the Franklin County area of Vermont.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
82 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
THE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
7.38 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Browns Pond