Cobble Mountain Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Cobble Mountain Dam, also known as Gunstock Recreation Dam, is a captivating earth dam located in Gilford, New Hampshire.
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Summary
Built in 1986, this local government-owned structure stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 90 feet in length, enclosing a storage capacity of 289 acre-feet along the Poor Farm Brook. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a surface area of 30 acres and a maximum discharge rate of 1140 cubic feet per second, making it a popular destination for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, Cobble Mountain Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam's moderate risk level is monitored through biennial inspections with a six-year frequency, ensuring that any necessary risk management measures are promptly implemented. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's design and construction have proven to effectively mitigate risks and maintain its structural integrity, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for recreational activities along the brook.
For those interested in the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, Cobble Mountain Dam serves as a prime example of how responsible ownership and regulatory oversight can ensure the safety and sustainability of vital water infrastructure. With its scenic location and well-maintained facilities, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive risk assessment and management in safeguarding both the environment and the community's recreational interests.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
90 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
POOR FARM BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
2.7 |
Nid Storage |
289 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
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