Burton Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Burton Pond Dam, located in Lyndeborough, New Hampshire, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau.


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Summary

Built in 1837, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 160 feet, with a primary purpose of recreation. The dam has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 40 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Burton Pond Dam is rated as being in fair condition as of the last inspection in November 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has an inspection frequency of 6 times per year to ensure its continued safety and functionality. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, it remains a key feature in the local ecosystem and provides recreational opportunities for visitors.

As a vital part of the landscape in Hillsborough County, Burton Pond Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting the surrounding environment. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1837

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR STONY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Drainage Area

0.46

Nid Storage

350

Hazard Potential

Low

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.