Bow Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nippo Pond Dam North River Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Bow Lake Dam, located in Strafford, New Hampshire, is a state-owned earth dam built in 1832 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 24 feet and stretching 400 feet in length, the dam impounds the Isinglass River, creating a surface area of 1171 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 22,380 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam remains state-regulated and regularly inspected by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 20 feet, is uncontrolled, and its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment highlight the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of emergency preparedness and adherence to guidelines in case of a potential breach. With the dam situated in a picturesque setting and offering recreational opportunities, ongoing efforts to ensure its structural integrity and safety are crucial for both water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
In conclusion, Bow Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational asset while also posing significant risks that require proactive management and oversight. As a historic structure with a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment, last conducted in 2016, underscores the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential threats. By prioritizing safety measures and risk management strategies, stakeholders can ensure the long-term sustainability of Bow Lake Dam and safeguard the surrounding environment and communities from potential water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1832 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
ISINGLASS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1171 |
Drainage Area |
14.3 |
Nid Storage |
22380 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cocheco River Near Rochester
|
23cfs |
Isinglass R At Rochester Neck Rd
|
24cfs |
Suncook River At North Chichester
|
62cfs |
Oyster River Near Durham
|
2cfs |
Lamprey River Near Newmarket
|
42cfs |
Soucook River
|
22cfs |
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.
Bow Lake Dam