Beards Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Beards Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 16 ft (taller than 54.9% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 175 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 39 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,130 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2001 |
| NID ID | NH00970 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
NH DOT
State Government
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Significant Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Beards Creek Dam?
Beards Creek Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Beards Creek Dam?
Beards Creek Dam is owned by NH DOT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Beards Creek Dam built?
Beards Creek Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Beards Creek Dam?
Beards Creek 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 Beards Creek Dam?
Beards Creek Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Beards Creek Dam last inspected?
Beards Creek Dam was last inspected on June 2, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.