Contoocook Lake (also referred to as Lake Contoocook) is a freshwater lake situated in the town of Hopkinton, Merrimack County, New Hampshire, United States. The lake lies within the watershed of the Contoocook River, which serves both as its primary inflow and outflow.
Geography
- Location: Hopkinton, Merrimack County, New Hampshire, United States.
- Coordinates: Approximately 42°50′N latitude, 71°59′W longitude.
- Surface area: Reported to be roughly 400 acres (1.6 km²).
- Maximum depth: Estimates place the maximum depth near 30 feet (9 m).
- Elevation: The lake’s surface elevation is around 400 feet (122 m) above sea level.
Hydrology
Contoocook Lake is a natural lake that has been modified by the construction of a low‑head dam on the Contoocook River, creating a modest reservoir effect. The Contoocook River flows into the lake from the north and exits at the southern end, continuing downstream toward the Merrimack River.
Ecology
The lake supports a typical New England freshwater ecosystem. Fish species commonly reported in the lake include largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), chain pickerel (Esox niger), and various panfish such as bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) and black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus.). Aquatic vegetation includes submerged and emergent macrophytes consistent with shallow, temperate lakes in the region.
Recreation and Use
Contoocook Lake is a local recreation site used for boating, fishing, swimming, and shoreline activities. Public access is provided via a municipal boat launch and several private shoreline properties. The lake’s water quality is monitored by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, which assesses parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient concentrations to support both ecological health and recreational safety.
Management
Management of the lake’s water resources and surrounding land use is overseen by the town of Hopkinton in coordination with state environmental agencies. Efforts focus on maintaining water quality, controlling invasive species, and preserving habitat for native wildlife.
References
- New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Water Quality Monitoring Reports.
- United States Geological Survey (USGS) Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) entry for “Contoocook Lake”.
Note: Information presented reflects available geographic and environmental data as of the latest public records. No speculative or unverified claims are included.