Massabesic Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Massabesic Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1873 and is 153 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 30 ft (taller than 86.7% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 46.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,658 acres |
| Drainage Area | 47 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,820 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1873 (153 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2022 |
| NID ID | NH00103 |
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
MANCHESTER WATER WORKS
Local Government
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Massabesic Lake Dam?
Massabesic 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 Massabesic Lake Dam?
Massabesic Lake Dam is owned by MANCHESTER WATER WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Massabesic Lake Dam built?
Massabesic Lake Dam was completed in 1873, making it 153 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 Massabesic Lake Dam?
Massabesic Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Massabesic Lake Dam?
Massabesic Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Massabesic Lake Dam last inspected?
Massabesic Lake Dam was last inspected on July 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.