Thompson Pond Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Thompson Pond Upper is a picturesque water resource located in Pownal, Vermont, offering a serene setting for recreation enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.


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Summary

This privately owned dam, completed in 1900, stands at a height of 9 feet and spans 430 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, with its earth and stone core structure contributing to its fair condition assessment.

Situated on the South Stream-TR river in Bennington County, this dam is regulated and permitted by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's inspection frequency of 3 years ensures its structural integrity and public safety. While the dam's current normal storage is reported as zero, its maximum storage capacity of 140 acre-feet makes it a vital resource for water management in the region.

With its rich history dating back over a century, Thompson Pond Upper stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resources in the face of changing climate patterns. As a focal point for outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and nature's resilience in sustaining our water ecosystems for generations to come.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

SOUTH STREAM-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

0.83

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
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.