Compressor Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Osgood Pond Dam Goldman Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Compressor Pond Dam, located in Milford, New Hampshire, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and stretches 835 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 76.3 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 3.7 acres and a drainage area of 2.25 square miles along the Ox Brook.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 9 feet, and the maximum discharge capacity is 29 cubic feet per second. The last inspection in September 2017 indicated a need for reassessment and potential risk management measures. With a history dating back over a century, Compressor Pond Dam serves as an important recreational resource in the area and is under the jurisdiction of the state of New Hampshire for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams will find Compressor Pond Dam a fascinating subject. Its historical significance, structural features, and risk assessment provide valuable insights into the complexities of balancing recreational needs with safety and regulatory requirements in the management of water resources. There is a clear opportunity for further evaluation and potential improvements to ensure the continued safety and functionality of this important piece of infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
835 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
OX BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.7 |
Drainage Area |
2.25 |
Nid Storage |
76.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Compressor Pond Dam
Melendy Pond boat launch