Beards Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Beards Creek Dam, located in Durham, New Hampshire, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 250 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the picturesque Beards Creek, offering a surface area of 16 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water activities.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Beards Creek Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2017. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 8 feet wide, can handle a maximum discharge of 1130 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for this dam is moderate, it is reassuring to note that emergency action plans are in place and regularly updated to meet safety guidelines, ensuring the protection of surrounding communities in case of any unforeseen emergencies. Beards Creek Dam is a vital part of New Hampshire's water resource infrastructure, serving both recreational and safety purposes for residents and visitors alike.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
BEARDS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
3.21 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Beards Creek Dam
Oyster River boat launch