Putney Meadow Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Located in Bow, New Hampshire, Putney Meadow Pond Dam is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1800, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and spans a length of 90 feet. With a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a surface area of 28 acres, the dam regulates the flow of TR Black Brook, providing a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2015 deemed it to be in poor condition, warranting regular inspections every 6 years. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau is responsible for regulating and enforcing state requirements for the maintenance and operation of Putney Meadow Pond Dam. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the need for proper management and maintenance of aging infrastructure like Putney Meadow Pond Dam becomes increasingly critical to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Putney Meadow Pond Dam offers a compelling case study in the management of recreational water structures within the context of changing environmental conditions. With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing human recreational needs with the preservation of natural ecosystems. As efforts to address climate change intensify, the ongoing monitoring and maintenance of dams like Putney Meadow Pond Dam will be essential in adapting to a rapidly changing world.
Year Completed |
1800 |
Dam Length |
90 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR BLACK BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1.05 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Putney Meadow Pond Dam
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