Bolster Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Barre Town, Vermont, Bolster Reservoir is a private water supply reservoir with a primary purpose of providing water for various uses.


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Summary

Built in 1910, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a capacity of 55 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 6 acres and is fed by the Stevens Branch-TR river or stream.

Despite its age, Bolster Reservoir has a low hazard potential, although its condition assessment is rated as poor. The last inspection in 2005 revealed this, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 10 years. The reservoir is state-regulated with oversight from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring that it meets the necessary safety and operational standards.

Although Bolster Reservoir may face some challenges in terms of its current condition, it remains a vital water resource for the surrounding area. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and preserving our water infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

STEVENS BRANCH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

1.37

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.