Lovell Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Lovell Lake Dam, located in Wakefield, New Hampshire, is a state-regulated concrete structure built in 1918 with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Standing at a height of 12 feet and a length of 260 feet, it boasts a storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet and a surface area of 530 acres. The dam, situated on Branch River, plays a crucial role in managing water resources, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1730 cubic feet per second.
Despite its significant role in water management, Lovell Lake Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in April 2020 revealed the need for maintenance and potential risk mitigation measures. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the NHDES Dam Bureau, ensuring that state inspections and enforcement measures are in place to address any safety concerns. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a pressing need for continued monitoring and management of the dam to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1918 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BRANCH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
530 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
2400 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lovell Lake Dam
Lovell Lake boat launch