Sargent Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Sargent Lake Dam, also known as Saergent Reservoir Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Belmont, New Hampshire.


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Summary

Built in 1870, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and stretches across 422 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 178 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to its picturesque surroundings and offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

Despite its recreational appeal, Sargent Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam is regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. The spillway, with a width of 45 feet, is uncontrolled, raising concerns about the dam's ability to manage high discharge events effectively. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, prompting the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures.

Overall, Sargent Lake Dam presents a compelling mix of historical significance, recreational opportunities, and regulatory challenges for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and integrity of this structure, it remains a focal point for those interested in the intersection of water management, environmental stewardship, and outdoor recreation in the beautiful region of Belknap, New Hampshire.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

422

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

BADGER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

43

Drainage Area

2.78

Nid Storage

461

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.