NEW-HAMPSHIRE RESERVOIR REPORT
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
In New Hampshire, the state of dams and reservoirs is a critical concern for water management, recreation, and ecological balance. The latest data indicates that Lake Winnipesaukee, the state's largest lake, is currently experiencing lower than average water levels. As of December 25, 2025, the Lake Winnipesaukee at Weirs Beach monitoring station recorded a gage height of 3 feet, which is 0.77 feet below the average of 3.77 feet. This decrease in water level is significant as it can impact local water supplies, recreational activities such as boating, and the health of aquatic ecosystems.
The deviation from the average water level at Lake Winnipesaukee may be due to a variety of factors, including lower than normal snowpack levels or reduced river inflows. New Hampshire relies heavily on winter snowpack to replenish its lakes and reservoirs; thus, a milder winter or fewer precipitation events can lead to lower water levels in the following seasons. Additionally, river flows feeding into the lake can be affected by upstream water usage and climatic conditions. While the provided dataset only includes information for Lake Winnipesaukee, cross-referencing with other data sources would be necessary to confirm trends and conditions across other major dams and reservoirs in the state. Without additional data, it's challenging to determine whether other water bodies are experiencing similar conditions. Nevertheless, the current state of Lake Winnipesaukee serves as a potential indicator for water resource managers to monitor and address any emerging water-related issues in the region.
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.