Norton Pond

COATICOOK RIVER· Essex, Vermont· Built 1893· Earth· 13 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Norton Pond is classified as significant hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1893 and is 133 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 25.3% in VT)
Dam Length1,200 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage3.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area583 acres
Drainage Area17 sq mi
Year Completed1893 (133 years old)
NID IDVT00198

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: January 1, 1992
State Regulated: No

Ownership

HYDRO COATICOOK

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Norton Pond?

Norton Pond is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Norton Pond?

Norton Pond is owned by HYDRO COATICOOK (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Norton Pond built?

Norton Pond was completed in 1893, making it 133 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Norton Pond?

Norton Pond serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Norton Pond?

Norton Pond has a dam height of 13 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Norton Pond last inspected?

Norton Pond was last inspected on January 1, 1992. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.