Crescent Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Crescent Lake Dam, also known as Wentworth Pond Dam, is a concrete structure located in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, along the Smith River.
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Summary
Completed in 1854, the dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 131 feet in length. Its primary purpose is recreational, offering a surface area of 3166 square feet and a normal storage capacity of 12,700 acre-feet. However, recent inspections have revealed a poor condition assessment and a high hazard potential, indicating a need for maintenance and potential risk management measures.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, Crescent Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the dam's deteriorating condition poses a moderate risk (rated 3 out of 5) to the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1,880 cubic feet per second, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and poor condition highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource in Carroll County.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Crescent Lake Dam can appreciate its historical significance and recreational value while also recognizing the need for proactive risk management and maintenance efforts to protect the surrounding community and environment. As a key feature along the Smith River, the dam's high hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and potential rehabilitation to ensure the continued safety and functionality of this essential infrastructure in New Hampshire.
Year Completed |
1854 |
Dam Length |
131 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
SMITH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
3166 |
Drainage Area |
36 |
Nid Storage |
21320 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Winnipesaukee River At Tilton
|
85cfs |
Suncook River At North Chichester
|
62cfs |
Cocheco River Near Rochester
|
37cfs |
Merrimack River At Franklin Junction
|
857cfs |
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
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.
Crescent Lake Dam
Crescent Lake boat launch