Waumbek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rowe Dam Union Meadows Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Waumbek Dam, located in Milton, New Hampshire, on the Salmon Falls River, stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management.
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Summary
Built in 1880, this concrete dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. With a height of 17 feet and a length of 120 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 769 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, Waumbek Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2012. The dam's spillway, with a width of 78 feet, helps regulate water flow and prevent flooding downstream. Despite its age, Waumbek Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the region, showcasing the state's dedication to maintaining and preserving its natural landscapes.
As climate change and water resource management become increasingly important topics, Waumbek Dam stands as a symbol of New Hampshire's proactive approach to the conservation of its waterways. With regular inspections and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam serves as a model for sustainable infrastructure that balances human needs with environmental protection. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Waumbek Dam is crucial in advocating for responsible water management practices and ensuring the preservation of our precious natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1880 |
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
SALMON FALLS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
29 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Waumbek Dam
Lovell Lake Road 3198, Acton