Vilas Pool Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Warren Lake Dam Bellows Falls
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Vilas Pool Dam, located in Alstead, New Hampshire, is a concrete structure completed in 1925 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 31 feet and a length of 135 feet, this dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and serves as a significant water resource for the area. The dam is situated on the Cold River and is regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau, ensuring that it is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Vilas Pool Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in 2017 revealed the dam's deteriorating state, prompting concerns over its safety and stability. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, it is crucial for the responsible authorities to implement effective risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats and safeguard the surrounding community and environment from the consequences of a dam failure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts should be aware of the importance of monitoring and maintaining aging infrastructure like Vilas Pool Dam to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. With its rich history and vital role in recreation and water storage, efforts to improve its condition and reduce risks associated with its operation are essential for the long-term preservation of this valuable asset.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
135 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
COLD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
61.2 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Vilas Pool Dam
Lake Warren boat launch