Horn Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Horn Pond Dam, located in Wakefield, New Hampshire, is a state-regulated concrete structure completed in 1935 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 14 feet and a length of 250 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 3,318 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 2,751 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Salmon Falls River and has a drainage area of 22.8 square miles.

Despite its picturesque setting and recreational benefits, Horn Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of May 2018. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 58 feet, and its last inspection date was in April 2020, with a frequency of every 4 years. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk, although specific risk management measures and inundation maps are currently unavailable.

With its historical significance and potential risks, Horn Pond Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the complexities of dam management and safety. As a state-regulated structure on the Salmon Falls River, the dam's condition and risk assessment highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of this vital water resource.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

SALMON FALLS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

198

Drainage Area

22.8

Nid Storage

3318

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.