Gulch Mountain Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Gulch Mountain Pond Dam, also known as Cole Pond, is a local government-owned structure in Northwood, New Hampshire, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1965 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 14.5 feet and has a length of 600 feet. With a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet, the dam sits on the TR Northwood Lake stream, serving as a popular recreational spot for residents and visitors alike.

Despite its significance for recreation, Gulch Mountain Pond Dam has been rated as having a poor condition and a significant hazard potential. Inspected by NHDES DAM BUREAU, the dam's last assessment in 2016 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure its safety and functionality. With limited emergency action preparedness and risk management measures in place, there is a moderate risk associated with the dam, emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential hazards and ensure public safety.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable dam management practices, Gulch Mountain Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role these structures play in providing recreational opportunities while also posing potential risks to surrounding communities. With a focus on enhancing structural integrity and emergency response preparedness, stakeholders can work together to safeguard this cherished water resource for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

TR NORTHWOOD LAKE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

103

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.