Bear Hill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Bear Hill Pond Dam, located in Allenstown, New Hampshire, is a state-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1885, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 7 feet and stretches 310 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The dam regulates Boat Meadow Brook and has a surface area of 31 acres, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water-based activities.

Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, Bear Hill Pond Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2012. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1130 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has been inspected regularly, with the most recent inspection conducted in August 2018 at a frequency of every 6 years, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.

Surrounded by the picturesque Merrimack County landscape, Bear Hill Pond Dam offers a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of nature and infrastructure. With its historical significance and recreational appeal, this dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem while providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of New Hampshire's water resources.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

BOAT MEADOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.