Crescent Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Crescent Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1854 and is 172 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 47.8% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 131 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 21.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 12.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,166 acres |
| Drainage Area | 36 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,880 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1854 (172 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2000 |
| NID ID | NH00309 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TOWN OF WOLFEBORO
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 12 ftCopps Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 11 ftKingswood Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Crescent Lake Dam?
Crescent Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Crescent Lake Dam?
Crescent Lake Dam is owned by TOWN OF WOLFEBORO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Crescent Lake Dam built?
Crescent Lake Dam was completed in 1854, making it 172 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Crescent Lake Dam?
Crescent Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Crescent Lake Dam?
Crescent Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Crescent Lake Dam last inspected?
Crescent Lake Dam was last inspected on May 25, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.