Norford Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Norford Lake, located in Thetford, Vermont, is a privately owned water resource that offers recreational opportunities for enthusiasts in the area.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1925, stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 18 acres and is fed by Avery Brook-TR, providing a serene setting for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Managed by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Norford Lake is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as fair during the last inspection in 2018. Emergency action plans are in place, although details on their preparation and guidelines adherence are not specified in the available data.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Norford Lake offers a glimpse into Vermont's efforts in managing its water infrastructure for both recreational and regulatory purposes. With its historical significance dating back nearly a century, the lake provides a valuable ecosystem for wildlife and serves as a vital resource for the local community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ongoing assessments and risk management measures will be crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of Norford Lake.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

309

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

AVERY BROOK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

1.03

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.