Whites Pond Dam And Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Whites Pond Dam and Dike, located in Pittsfield, New Hampshire, is a historic structure completed in 1890 with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities.
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Summary
This concrete dam stands at a height of 15.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 405 acre-feet, serving the Suncook River. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition according to a 2017 assessment, and regular inspections ensure its safety and functionality.
Managed by a private owner, Whites Pond Dam and Dike is regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to maintain its integrity. The dam's spillway, though uncontrolled, has a width of 10 feet and can handle a maximum discharge of 1502 cubic feet per second. Its hazard potential is classified as high, but with moderate risk overall. Emergency action plans are in place, and the structure meets regulatory guidelines for risk management.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Whites Pond Dam and Dike will appreciate its historical significance, recreational value, and role in managing the flow of the Suncook River. The dam's design, construction, and maintenance demonstrate a commitment to balancing water management needs with safety and environmental considerations. As a key feature in the local watershed, Whites Pond Dam and Dike serves as a reminder of the importance of proper infrastructure for sustainable water resource management in New Hampshire's Merrimack County.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
15.4 |
River Or Stream |
TR SUNCOOK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
24.6 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
405 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Whites Pond Dam And Dike
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