Dow Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Dow Pond, located in Middlebury, Vermont, is a privately owned water resource regulated by the state's Department of Environmental Conservation.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. The pond covers an area of 12 acres and is fed by the Muddy Branch stream, serving as a vital water source for the surrounding area.

Despite its historical significance, Dow Pond faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. With a significant hazard potential, the dam requires regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection in April 2018 raised concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential emergencies, prompting the need for improved risk management measures and emergency action preparedness.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dow Pond presents a unique case study in the intersection of historical infrastructure, environmental regulation, and risk management. As efforts continue to address the dam's condition and emergency preparedness, there is a growing need for collaboration between private owners, state agencies, and community stakeholders to safeguard this important water source for future generations.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

MUDDY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

2.5

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.