Reservoir Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Dorchester, New Hampshire, the Reservoir Pond Dam is a privately owned structure regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1900 with a primary purpose of recreation, this earthen dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 200 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 949 acre-feet and a surface area of 158 acres, the dam serves as a recreational spot for locals and visitors alike.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the Reservoir Pond Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential but moderate risk. The last inspection in 2018 highlighted the need for maintenance and improvements. While the dam currently meets state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, there are concerns about its structural integrity and emergency preparedness.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Reservoir Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of historical infrastructure, recreational use, and environmental risk management. With its location on the Mascoma River and its outdated spillway design, the dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining and safeguarding water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts are made to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate potential risks, it stands as a symbol of the complex relationship between human intervention and natural systems.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR MASCOMA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

158

Drainage Area

4.33

Nid Storage

949

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.