Thompson Lake Dam
Winter Draw Down 2026
The Thompson Lake Dam began its annual winter drawdown on October 2, 2026. The dam, also known as the Robinson Mill Dam, is located at the northern outlet of Thompson Lake in Oxford and is managed by the Town of Oxford Public Works Department.
TLEA receives monthly dam reports from the Town of Oxford, which provide information on lake levels and dam operations. These reports are available on our website here.
As of October 6, 2026, the lake level is approximately 23 inches below the top of the dam, with a target of reaching 32 inches below the top of the dam by October 16.
The seasonal water levels currently followed by the Town of Oxford were developed following a 2012 review of Thompson Lake’s water level history, shoreline conditions, fish habitat, and recreational needs. The goal is to maintain a relatively stable water level while reducing shoreline erosion and protecting important lake habitat.
Current seasonal guidelines:
The winter drawdown is an important part of the lake’s annual water-level management. Lowering the lake before winter and maintaining the lower level through the spring helps reduce the potential for shoreline erosion and flooding during spring runoff and ice-out. The lower winter level also helps protect shoreline stability during a period when ice and fluctuating water levels can put additional stress on the shoreline.