Ossipee Lake Dam Berry Bay Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Ossipee Lake Dam Berry Bay, located in Freedom, New Hampshire, is a state-regulated concrete dam built in 1919 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 150 feet, creating a storage capacity of 47,200 acre-feet. With a surface area of 4,095 acres and a drainage area of 357 acres, the dam serves as a vital water resource in the region, particularly for recreational activities on Ossipee Lake.
Despite its age, the dam is assessed to be in fair condition with a low hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in October 2017, to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. The dam is overseen by the NHDES Dam Bureau and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, appropriate risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential issues and ensure the ongoing safety of the dam and surrounding areas.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ossipee Lake Dam Berry Bay represents a fascinating intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental stewardship. As a key component of the Ossipee River watershed, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels, providing recreational opportunities, and maintaining the ecological balance of the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing demands on water resources.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
OSSIPEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
4095 |
Drainage Area |
357 |
Nid Storage |
47200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Saco River Near Conway
|
315cfs |
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
Pemigewasset River At Plymouth
|
536cfs |
Mousam River Near West Kennebunk
|
44cfs |
Pemigewasset River At Woodstock
|
207cfs |
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.
Ossipee Lake Dam Berry Bay
Ossipee River boat launch