Newfound Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Newfound Lake Dam, located in Bristol, New Hampshire, stands as a crucial structure along the Newfound River.


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Summary

Built in 1840, this concrete dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 40,000 acre-feet. With a height of 12 feet and a length of 117 feet, the dam creates a surface area of 4410 acres and drains a watershed area of 95 square miles. Despite its age, the dam has faced inspection and regulation by the NHDES Dam Bureau, ensuring its safety and functionality.

However, recent assessments have raised concerns about the dam's condition, as it has been labeled as having a "Poor" condition assessment with a "High" hazard potential. The last inspection in June 2020 highlighted the need for improvements to mitigate risks associated with the structure. With a moderate risk rating of 3, there is a call for increased risk management measures to address potential safety issues. Efforts to update emergency action plans and conduct risk assessments are essential for ensuring the long-term viability of the Newfound Lake Dam.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change must closely monitor the developments surrounding the Newfound Lake Dam to safeguard the surrounding communities and the environment. As a vital piece of infrastructure for both recreation and water management, the dam's maintenance and upkeep are crucial to prevent any potential hazards. With proper risk management measures and regular inspections, the Newfound Lake Dam can continue to serve its purpose effectively while minimizing any risks posed to the area.

Year Completed

1840

Dam Length

117

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

NEWFOUND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

4410

Drainage Area

95

Nid Storage

40000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.