Pontook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Pontook Reservoir Dam, located in Milan, New Hampshire, is a state-regulated hydroelectric facility on the Androscoggin River.


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Summary

Built in 1909 by designer E. C. Jordan, this concrete, rockfill, and timber crib dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 399 feet. With a storage capacity of 883 acre-feet and a surface area of 280 acres, Pontook Reservoir Dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Pontook Reservoir Dam boasts a spillway width of 312 feet and six vertical lift outlet gates. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular state inspections and has a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is not available, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated to ensure the safety of nearby communities in case of flooding or other emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pontook Reservoir Dam serves as an important example of how a historic dam continues to play a key role in both energy production and local recreation while being actively regulated and inspected to ensure safety and environmental protection. Its location on the Androscoggin River adds to its significance in the region, making it a site of interest for those interested in water management and the intersection of infrastructure and natural resources.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

399

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Androscoggin River

Surface Area

280

Drainage Area

1214

Nid Storage

883

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 6

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.