Shop Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Shop Pond Dam, also known as Wash Pond Lower Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Hampstead, New Hampshire.


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Summary

Constructed in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans a length of 240 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.5 acres, this dam on TR Island Pond is regulated by the NHDES DAM BUREAU, ensuring state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

The dam's condition assessment in 2015 rated it as "fair" with a significant hazard potential, prompting a moderate risk assessment. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for the local community, offering a tranquil escape within Rockingham County. With a maximum discharge of 93 cubic feet per second and uncontrolled spillway type, Shop Pond Dam remains a vital water management structure in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Shop Pond Dam's historical significance, structural design, and operational importance within the local watershed. As a vital piece of infrastructure, this dam not only contributes to the area's recreational landscape but also plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring public safety. With ongoing regulatory oversight and periodic inspections, Shop Pond Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in New Hampshire's water management practices.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR ISLAND POND

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.