Ricker Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Ricker Pond, located in Groton, Vermont, is a picturesque water resource nestled along the Wells River.


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Summary

Managed by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering visitors a serene environment for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam, constructed in 1900, is a concrete structure with a height of 8 feet and a length of 102 feet, providing a storage capacity of 850 acre-feet and a surface area of 92 acres.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Ricker Pond remains a safe and enjoyable destination for water and climate enthusiasts. The dam's inspection frequency of every 10 years ensures that it is regularly monitored and maintained to meet regulatory standards set by the state of Vermont. While the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, its role in water resource management and flood control along the Wells River cannot be understated. As a critical infrastructure, Ricker Pond contributes to the overall resilience of the surrounding ecosystem and supports a diverse range of aquatic and terrestrial life.

As an essential part of the Caledonia County landscape, Ricker Pond serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature and engage in water-based activities. The dam's historical significance, combined with its functional role in water storage and management, underscores the importance of preserving and maintaining this vital resource for future generations. Whether it's exploring the serene waters of Ricker Pond or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of its surroundings, this site offers a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate dynamics in a captivating natural setting.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

102

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

WELLS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

92

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

21.09

Nid Storage

850

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.