Pawtuckaway Lake Dollof Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Pawtuckaway Lake Dollof Dam, located in Nottingham, New Hampshire, is a state-owned structure that plays a crucial role in regulating the Pawtuckaway River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1842, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 414 feet, with a storage capacity of 11,700 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides opportunities for water-based activities on the lake, covering a surface area of 900 acres.

Despite its historical significance and recreational importance, the Pawtuckaway Lake Dollof Dam is currently rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in March 2020 revealed the need for maintenance and potential risks associated with the dam structure. The dam is regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau, with inspections conducted every two years to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the Pawtuckaway Lake Dollof Dam, there is a growing emphasis on risk assessment and management measures to address the dam's deteriorating condition. With a moderate risk level assigned to the dam, stakeholders are working towards implementing necessary improvements and emergency preparedness plans to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the long-term safety of this vital water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1842

Dam Length

414

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

PAWTUCKAWAY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

900

Drainage Area

21

Nid Storage

11700

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.