Gonic Dam

COCHECO RIVER· Strafford, New Hampshire· Built 1935· Concrete· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Gonic Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 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 Length130 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage700 acre-ft
Normal Storage60 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Drainage Area78 sq mi
Max Discharge6,300 cfs
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDNH00388

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 1, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NH DES

Ownership

GOSPORT PROPERTIES LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Gonic Dam?

Gonic 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 Gonic Dam?

Gonic Dam is owned by GOSPORT PROPERTIES LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Gonic Dam built?

Gonic Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Gonic Dam?

Gonic 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 Gonic Dam?

Gonic 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 Gonic Dam last inspected?

Gonic Dam was last inspected on June 1, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.