NEW-HAMPSHIRE RESERVOIR REPORT
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
New Hampshire's dams and reservoirs are critical components of the state's water management system, serving various purposes such as water supply, recreation, and flood control. However, current observations from Lake Winnipesaukee at Weirs Beach show a gage height measurement of 3 feet, which is significantly lower than the average of 3.77 feet. This suggests that the water levels are below what is typically expected for this time of year. Given that the last observation was on December 9, 2025, it is possible that seasonal factors, such as decreased precipitation, lower snowpack levels, or below-average river flows might be contributing to these reduced water levels. These conditions could be indicative of wider water management challenges, including the potential strain on drinking water supplies.
A recent reinstatement of emergency dry well assistance, as mentioned by the New Hampshire Bulletin, underscores the ongoing concerns regarding the state's drinking water future, which may be exacerbated by abnormal conditions at major dams like the one at Weir Beach. The cold temperatures reflected in the reactions to Duluth's weather by country stars, as reported by Duluth Country Radio, could potentially be linked to reduced snow melt and subsequently lower river inputs into reservoirs. These observations, combined with the recent assistance measures, signal a need for close monitoring of New Hampshire's water storage systems and proactive management to ensure water security and ecosystem health. The state's residents and stakeholders should be aware of the current conditions at Lake Winnipesaukee and other key water bodies to better anticipate potential water usage restrictions and conservation efforts that may be required if such abnormal conditions persist.
New Hampshire has several reservoirs and dams that serve as important sources of water supply for various purposes like hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake, Newfound Lake, and Lake Winnisquam. These reservoirs are fed by several streams, rivers, and creeks including the Merrimack River, Pemigewasset River, and Winnipesaukee River. The snowpack from the White Mountains is a crucial source of water for these reservoirs. In recent years, New Hampshire has experienced drought conditions, leading to record low levels in some reservoirs. Seasonal trends in the area show that spring is usually the wettest season, and winter snowfall contributes significantly to the water supply. The hydrology in the area is highly dynamic and influenced by several factors like precipitation, temperature, and topography. To ensure sustainable water management, New Hampshire has implemented various policies and regulations to protect its water resources.
New Hampshire has several reservoirs and dams that serve as important sources of water supply for various purposes like hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake, Newfound Lake, and Lake Winnisquam. These reservoirs are fed by several streams, rivers, and creeks including the Merrimack River, Pemigewasset River, and Winnipesaukee River. The snowpack from the White Mountains is a crucial source of water for these reservoirs. In recent years, New Hampshire has experienced drought conditions, leading to record low levels in some reservoirs. Seasonal trends in the area show that spring is usually the wettest season, and winter snowfall contributes significantly to the water supply. The hydrology in the area is highly dynamic and influenced by several factors like precipitation, temperature, and topography. To ensure sustainable water management, New Hampshire has implemented various policies and regulations to protect its water resources.