Barton Village Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Barton Village, also known as Pensioner Pond Dam, is a hydroelectric structure located in Orleans, Vermont, along the Clyde River.


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Summary

Built in 1949, this masonry dam stands at a height of 16.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is not currently regulated by the state but falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 762 cubic feet per second. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam covers a surface area of 187 acres and drains a watershed area of 108 square miles. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and it undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its safety and operational efficiency.

Managed by a public utility, Barton Village serves as a key component in Vermont's renewable energy infrastructure. Its location in Newport, close to the New England District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights its importance in harnessing the region's water resources for sustainable energy production. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of structures like Barton Village is crucial in promoting the responsible use of water for power generation while ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

77

Dam Height

16.5

River Or Stream

Clyde River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

187

Drainage Area

108

Nid Storage

560

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.
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