Hopper Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hopper Pond, also known as Hopper Brook, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Sandgate, Vermont.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this concrete dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for hydroelectric power generation, making it a key player in the local energy infrastructure.

Although not regulated by the state, Hopper Pond has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The dam, with a length of 157 feet and a hydraulic height of 38 feet, sits on a rock foundation and serves as a multi-arch structure. While it does not have a designated spillway, the dam's structural integrity and operational status have not been assessed since 1974.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hopper Pond offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and engineering of hydroelectric infrastructure in Vermont. With its unique design and purpose, this dam serves as a reminder of the important role that water resources play in shaping our energy landscape.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

157

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

HOPPER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

25

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

38
       
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.