Pickpocket Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Brentwood, New Hampshire, Pickpocket Dam stands as a historical monument completed in 1920, serving as a recreational hotspot for water enthusiasts.
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Summary
This concrete structure spans 230 feet in length and reaches a height of 15 feet, with a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet along the Exeter River. Despite its impressive volume, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with a high hazard potential, necessitating regular inspections to ensure public safety.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, Pickpocket Dam falls under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a spillway width of 130 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 5250 cubic feet per second, this dam's uncontrolled spillway type adds to its historical charm while posing moderate risk. While efforts are made to mitigate potential risks and manage the dam effectively, ongoing maintenance and risk assessment measures are crucial to uphold its structural integrity and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pickpocket Dam offers a blend of historical significance and recreational opportunities amid the scenic beauty of Rockingham, New Hampshire.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
EXETER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
22 |
Drainage Area |
86 |
Nid Storage |
185 |
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.
Pickpocket Dam
Squamscott River boat launch