Coffin Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Baker Brook Pond Dam Apthorp
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Coffin Pond Dam, located in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire, is a state-owned structure regulating the flow of the TR Gale River.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this Earth-type dam stands at 10 feet tall and spans 320 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. While primarily used for recreation, the dam also serves to control water levels and ensure the safety of the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's poor condition assessment in 2013 highlights the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate risks.
Managed by the NHDES DAM BUREAU, Coffin Pond Dam undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with regulatory standards. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is essential for emergency preparedness measures to be in place, although details on emergency action plans and risk management measures are currently unavailable. While the dam's spillway type is listed as uncontrolled, its maximum discharge capacity of 194 cubic feet per second indicates a potential for significant water flow during peak periods.
Given its critical role in water management and recreation, Coffin Pond Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, safety, and environmental stewardship. With ongoing assessments and monitoring, stakeholders can work to address the dam's current condition and enhance its resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and future challenges.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR GALE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fransted campground
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Cannon Mountain RV Park
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Coppermine Shelter
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Crazy Horse Family Campground
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Boy Scout's of America
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Kinsman Pond Shelter
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Coffin Pond Dam
Echo Lake boat launch
Headwaters At Profile Lake To Southern Boundary Of Franconia Notch State Park