Lower Damon Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Lower Damon Reservoir Dam, located in Rindge, New Hampshire, serves as a vital recreational resource for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Completed in 1832, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 450 feet, holding a storage capacity of 249 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 26.1 acres and has a drainage area of 11.6 square miles, fed by Tarbell Brook.

Despite its historical significance, Lower Damon Reservoir Dam poses a high hazard potential and is currently in poor condition according to a 2017 assessment. The dam is regulated, inspected, and permitted by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, indicating a commitment to ensuring its safety. However, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to address potential hazards and improve the dam's overall condition.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience should monitor the status of Lower Damon Reservoir Dam, as it plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also posing potential risks to surrounding communities. With its rich history and scenic location, efforts to enhance the dam's safety and resilience will be essential in ensuring its continued contribution to the region's water infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

Year Completed

1832

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TARBELL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26.1

Drainage Area

11.6

Nid Storage

249

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.