Spoons Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cranberry Pond Dam Village Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Spoons Pond Dam, located in Gilsum, New Hampshire, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau.
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Summary
Built in 1966 for recreational purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam controls Converse Brook and has a spillway width of 4 feet, with a low hazard potential but a poor condition assessment as of 2011.
Despite its age, Spoons Pond Dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for visitors in the Cheshire County area. However, with a risk assessment rating of moderate, there is a need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure. The last inspection in November 2020 indicated a need for improvements, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the dam's integrity in the face of changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience should keep an eye on the developments of Spoons Pond Dam to support its preservation and safe usage for future generations.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
CONVERSE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.82 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Spoons Pond Dam
Chapman Pond boat launch