Plymouth Notch Snowmaking Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Black Pond Lower Moore Pond
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Plymouth Notch Snowmaking Pond, also known as Bear Creek Snowmaking Reservoir, is a privately owned water resource nestled in the picturesque city of Plymouth, Vermont.
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Summary
Constructed in 2014 by designer Morris Root, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 450 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 13 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this reservoir is for recreation, specifically for snowmaking activities in the winter season, making it a vital resource for climate enthusiasts and winter sports enthusiasts alike.
Located along the Black River in Windsor County, Vermont, Plymouth Notch Snowmaking Pond is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 deemed it to be in fair condition. Although the reservoir's normal storage capacity is listed as zero, its maximum storage capacity remains at 13 acre-feet, providing ample water resources for snowmaking operations.
With a surface area of 1.4 acres and a drainage area of 0.02 square miles, Plymouth Notch Snowmaking Pond plays a crucial role in supporting recreational activities in the region while also being a significant water resource for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and appreciate the importance of such structures, Plymouth Notch Snowmaking Pond stands as a testament to the careful planning and design needed to sustainably manage water resources for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Year Completed |
2014 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Plymouth Notch Snowmaking Pond
Headwaters To Woodstock, Vt