Prison Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Prison Pond, also known as Southeast State Correctional and Windsor Prison, is a concrete dam located in Windsor, Vermont.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 154 feet, Prison Pond has a storage capacity of 8 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1 acre.

The dam is situated on the Hubbard Brook-Tr river/stream and is under the jurisdiction of the state of Vermont. While it is not regulated by the state, Prison Pond is categorized as having a significant hazard potential. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam has not been inspected since August 2006. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and inspection of dams like Prison Pond to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of water resources.

With its historical significance and functional importance for fire protection and wildlife conservation, Prison Pond stands as an emblem of early 20th-century engineering and environmental stewardship. As a concrete gravity dam with a buttress core type, it represents a blend of traditional and modern design. As the climate continues to change, the management and upkeep of such water structures become increasingly vital to adapt to extreme weather events and ensure sustainable water resource management for future generations.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

154

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

HUBBARD BROOK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

8

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.