Hoague - Sprague

Contoocook River· Merrimack, New Hampshire· Built 1906· Timber Crib· 14 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Hoague - Sprague is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 42.1% in NH)
Dam Length350 ft
Dam TypeTimber Crib
Max Storage26 acre-ft
Normal Storage26 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area427 sq mi
Max Discharge19,562 cfs
Year Completed1906 (120 years old)
NID IDNH00070

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: Yes
Last Inspection: July 20, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NHDES DAM BUREAU

Ownership

West Hopkinton Hydro, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hoague - Sprague?

Hoague - Sprague 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 Hoague - Sprague?

Hoague - Sprague is owned by West Hopkinton Hydro, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hoague - Sprague built?

Hoague - Sprague was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 Hoague - Sprague?

Hoague - Sprague serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Hoague - Sprague?

Hoague - Sprague has a dam height of 14 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 Hoague - Sprague last inspected?

Hoague - Sprague was last inspected on July 20, 2022. 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.