Newbury Water Supply (Lower) Reservoir Report
Nearby: The Fish Pond Halls Lake
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
The Newbury Water Supply (Lower) dam in Vermont, completed in 1890, plays a crucial role in providing water to the local community.
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Summary
Situated on the Connecticut River, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for water supply purposes. However, despite its historical significance, the dam has been assessed to be in poor condition, raising concerns about its ability to function effectively in the long term.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, the Newbury Water Supply (Lower) dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and reliability. With a low hazard potential but a poor condition assessment, there is a need for ongoing maintenance and potentially rehabilitation efforts to address any structural deficiencies and mitigate risks associated with the dam. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and upgrading such vital water supply structures becomes even more critical.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of dams like the Newbury Water Supply (Lower) in sustaining communities and ecosystems. By advocating for proper maintenance and investment in infrastructure, we can help ensure the resilience of these essential water supply systems in the face of changing environmental conditions and growing water demands. The preservation and enhancement of the Newbury dam will not only safeguard water access for the local population but also contribute to broader efforts towards sustainable water management and climate adaptation.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
195 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
CONNECTICUT RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.15 |
Drainage Area |
0.94 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Harkdale Farm Campsite
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Bugbee Landing Campsite
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Underhill Campsite
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Jeffers Brook Shelter
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Ore Hill Tentsite
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Newbury Water Supply (Lower)
French Pond boat launch