Lyford Pond Dam

GUESS BROOK· Merrimack, New Hampshire· Built 1840· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lyford Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1840 and is 186 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 47.8% in NH)
Dam Length250 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage146 acre-ft
Normal Storage109 acre-ft
Surface Area24 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge1 cfs
Year Completed1840 (186 years old)
NID IDNH00331

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: November 13, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NH DES

Ownership

CANTERBURY SHAKER VILLAGE INC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lyford Pond Dam?

Lyford Pond Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lyford Pond Dam?

Lyford Pond Dam is owned by CANTERBURY SHAKER VILLAGE INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lyford Pond Dam built?

Lyford Pond Dam was completed in 1840, making it 186 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Lyford Pond Dam?

Lyford Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lyford Pond Dam?

Lyford Pond Dam has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Lyford Pond Dam last inspected?

Lyford Pond Dam was last inspected on November 13, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.