Black Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Black Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 16% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 180 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 253 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 109 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 48 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 580 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1985 |
| NID ID | NH00497 |
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 DES WATER DIVISION
State Government
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Black Reservoir Dam?
Black Reservoir 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 Black Reservoir Dam?
Black Reservoir Dam is owned by NH DES WATER DIVISION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Black Reservoir Dam built?
Black Reservoir Dam was completed in 1850, making it 176 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 Black Reservoir Dam?
Black Reservoir 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 Black Reservoir Dam?
Black Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Black Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Black Reservoir Dam was last inspected on September 2, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.