Milton Three Ponds Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Milton Leather Board Dam South Milton
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Milton Three Ponds Dam, located in Milton, New Hampshire, is a state-regulated structure on the Salmon Falls River.
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Summary
Built in 1824, this concrete dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 1400 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 15,000 acre-feet. With a height of 19 feet and a length of 156 feet, the dam has a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in November 2017.
Despite its age and condition, the dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its historical significance and the opportunities it provides for recreational activities on the surrounding Three Ponds. Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this essential structure. Overall, Milton Three Ponds Dam stands as a vital piece of New Hampshire's water infrastructure, blending both utility and natural beauty for visitors to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1824 |
Dam Length |
156 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
SALMON FALLS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1400 |
Drainage Area |
106.5 |
Nid Storage |
15000 |
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.
Milton Three Ponds Dam
Baxter Lake boat launch