Phillips Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Phillips Pond Dam, located in Odell, New Hampshire, serves primarily for recreational purposes and was completed in 1926.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 60 feet, with a storage capacity of 472 acre-feet. The dam regulates the flow of the West Branch Phillips Brook and covers a surface area of 71 acres, with a drainage area of 3.09 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a fair condition assessment. It is regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2020. Additionally, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is important to monitor its condition and ensure that appropriate risk management measures are in place to maintain its safety and functionality for both recreational and ecological purposes.

Overall, Phillips Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the balance between human recreation and environmental conservation. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As stakeholders continue to monitor and maintain the dam, it stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and natural ecosystems in the picturesque landscape of Coos County, New Hampshire.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH PHILLIPS BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Drainage Area

3.09

Nid Storage

472

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.