Long Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Long Pond Dam, located in Benton, New Hampshire, is a federally owned structure designed and constructed by the Forest Service in 1933 for the primary purpose of creating a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet, spans 415 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. Situated on Whitcher Brook, the dam serves as a recreational area and plays a crucial role in the conservation of aquatic habitats in the area.

With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Long Pond Dam is regulated and inspected by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam underwent structural modifications in 1992. The spillway, with a width of 10 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 1650 cubic feet per second in case of overflow. Despite its age, Long Pond Dam continues to be an essential component of water resource management in the region, ensuring the sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for visitors.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Long Pond Dam serves as a fascinating example of how human-made structures can positively impact the environment. As a vital component in the management of fish and wildlife habitats, the dam demonstrates the importance of sustainable water resource practices and the integration of recreational opportunities with conservation efforts. With its rich history dating back to the 1930s and ongoing regulatory oversight, Long Pond Dam stands as a symbol of the enduring commitment to protecting and preserving natural resources for future generations.

Years Modified

1992 - Structural

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

WHITCHER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.