Lakeport Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Lakeport is a state-owned hydroelectric dam located in Laconia, New Hampshire, on the Winnipesaukee River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1958, this dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. With a height of 10 feet and a length of 225 feet, Lakeport has a maximum storage capacity of 165,800 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 46,720 acres.

Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, Lakeport is regulated by both state and federal agencies, with inspections conducted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 72 feet, helps manage the flow of water and prevent flooding in the area. Despite its significant hazard potential, Lakeport has a moderate risk rating and has emergency action plans in place to ensure public safety in case of a dam failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Lakeport's role in balancing water management, energy production, and recreational opportunities in the region. As a key infrastructure for the community, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable water resource management and the collaboration between state and federal agencies to ensure the safety and resilience of our water systems.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Winnipesaukee River

Surface Area

46720

Drainage Area

363

Nid Storage

165800

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 3

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.