Copps Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Melvin River Dam Lower Beech Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Copps Pond Dam is a state-owned structure located in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire, along Wingate Brook.
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Summary
Built in 1944, this earth dam stands at 16 feet high and stretches 200 feet in length, with a primary purpose of recreation. It has a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 576 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 89 acres. The dam poses a significant hazard potential and has been assessed as being in poor condition.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, Copps Pond Dam is subject to state regulatory oversight, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 17 feet, capable of releasing a maximum discharge of 690 cubic feet per second. While the structure has not been modified in recent years and lacks an emergency action plan, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3), prompting the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Copps Pond Dam offers a compelling case study in dam management and maintenance. With its recreational focus and historical significance, this dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem while posing challenges in terms of safety and structural integrity. As stakeholders work to address its poor condition and significant hazard potential, the ongoing management of Copps Pond Dam underscores the importance of effective risk assessment and proactive measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in New Hampshire's Carroll County.
Year Completed |
1944 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
WINGATE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
89 |
Drainage Area |
4.4 |
Nid Storage |
700 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Pemigewasset River At Plymouth
|
461cfs |
Winnipesaukee River At Tilton
|
85cfs |
Saco River Near Conway
|
315cfs |
Smith River Near Bristol
|
35cfs |
Merrimack River At Franklin Junction
|
857cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Green Tops Campground
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Heron Cove
|
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Wister #4
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Wister #3
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Wister #2
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Wister #1
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Copps Pond Dam