Sunrise Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Currier Pond Dam Marchs Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Sunrise Lake Dam, also known as Dump Reservoir Dam, is a locally owned structure in Middleton, New Hampshire, with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1877, this Earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 665 feet across the Cocheco River. With a storage capacity of 2790 acre-feet and a surface area of 257 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in the region's water resource management and provides opportunities for outdoor activities.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, Sunrise Lake Dam has a State-regulated status, with regular inspections ensuring its structural integrity. Despite a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, and emergency action plans are in place. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's risk management measures are actively monitored to address any potential threats to the surrounding community and environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sunrise Lake Dam serves as a noteworthy example of how local infrastructure can support both recreational activities and water management needs in an environmentally conscious manner.
Year Completed |
1877 |
Dam Length |
665 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR COCHECO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
257 |
Drainage Area |
3.67 |
Nid Storage |
2790 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Sunrise Lake Dam
Merrymeeting Lake boat launch