Pickpocket Dam
Key Takeaway
Pickpocket Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 15 ft (taller than 47.8% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 230 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 185 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 75 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 86 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,250 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1969 |
| NID ID | NH00294 |
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
TOWN OF EXETER PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
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Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pickpocket Dam?
Pickpocket 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 Pickpocket Dam?
Pickpocket Dam is owned by TOWN OF EXETER PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pickpocket Dam built?
Pickpocket Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Pickpocket Dam?
Pickpocket 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 Pickpocket Dam?
Pickpocket Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Pickpocket Dam last inspected?
Pickpocket Dam was last inspected on September 15, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.