Great East Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Horn Pond Dam Lovell Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Great East Lake Dam, located in Wakefield, New Hampshire, is a concrete structure built in 1825 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 15 feet and stretching 68 feet in length, the dam holds a storage capacity of 27,700 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 19,600 acre-feet across its 1,800-acre surface area. The dam regulates flow on the Salmon Falls River and is under the jurisdiction of the NHDES Dam Bureau for regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam's risk level is considered moderate. The last condition assessment was conducted in May 2018, with inspections occurring every 4 years and the Emergency Action Plan last revised in November 2020. The spillway, with a width of 41 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam is not associated with any locks or outlet gates. The dam poses a significant risk but is actively managed to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and residents.
With its historical significance dating back to the early 19th century, Great East Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational and water resource for the community. Despite its age and condition, the dam remains a key infrastructure for managing water flow in the region and highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Great East Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study in dam management and the intersection of historical preservation with modern safety standards.
Year Completed |
1825 |
Dam Length |
68 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
SALMON FALLS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1800 |
Drainage Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
27700 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mousam River Near West Kennebunk
|
44cfs |
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
Cocheco River Near Rochester
|
24cfs |
Isinglass R At Rochester Neck Rd
|
26cfs |
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Oyster River Near Durham
|
2cfs |
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.
Great East Lake Dam
Great East Lake boat launch