Meadow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Meadow Lake Dam, also known as M.E.


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Summary

Burtt, is a state-owned structure located in Northwood, New Hampshire. Built in 1975 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a tranquil setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 105 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, Meadow Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, signaling a need for maintenance and improvement. The dam is regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The surrounding area, including the Lamprey River, benefits from the dam's water management capabilities, which help to mitigate flooding and control the flow of water.

While Meadow Lake Dam poses a moderate risk due to its current condition, the structure continues to play a vital role in water resource management and recreation in the region. With ongoing oversight and potential upgrades, this dam will likely continue to provide valuable benefits to the community and environment for years to come.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

LAMPREY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

0.45

Nid Storage

105

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.