Spofford Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: February 25, 2026

Spofford Lake Dam, located in Chesterfield, New Hampshire, serves as a vital structure for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.


Summary

Built in 1919, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches 83 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 10,650 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Partridge Brook and plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the area.

Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau and regulated by the State of New Hampshire, Spofford Lake Dam boasts a significant hazard potential but is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition. With a spillway width of 18 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 550 cubic feet per second, the dam's risk assessment is moderate. Despite this, regular inspections and enforcement ensure the dam's safety and functionality, offering peace of mind to those who frequent the picturesque Spofford Lake.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spofford Lake Dam presents a fascinating combination of historical significance and modern regulatory oversight. Its role in supporting recreational activities while managing water levels underscores the importance of responsible dam management in safeguarding both the environment and public safety. As a key feature of the Cheshire County landscape, Spofford Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty in the New Hampshire region.



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Wind

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Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

83

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

PARTRIDGE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

731

Drainage Area

3.9

Nid Storage

10650

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.