Edward MacDowell Dam
Key Takeaway
Edward MacDowell Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 63 ft (taller than 96.8% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 31.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 165 acres |
| Drainage Area | 44 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | NH00005 |
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
USACE - New England District
Federal Government
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What is the hazard classification of Edward MacDowell Dam?
Edward MacDowell 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 Edward MacDowell Dam?
Edward MacDowell Dam is owned by USACE - New England District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Edward MacDowell Dam built?
Edward MacDowell Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Edward MacDowell Dam?
Edward MacDowell Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Edward MacDowell Dam?
Edward MacDowell Dam has a dam height of 63 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 Edward MacDowell Dam last inspected?
Edward MacDowell Dam was last inspected on June 6, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.