Pisgah Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Pisgah Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 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 | 33 ft (taller than 89.6% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 165 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 956 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 660 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 110 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,933 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1984 |
| NID ID | NH00301 |
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
NH DNCR
State Government
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pisgah Reservoir Dam?
Pisgah Reservoir 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 Pisgah Reservoir Dam?
Pisgah Reservoir Dam is owned by NH DNCR (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pisgah Reservoir Dam built?
Pisgah Reservoir Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Pisgah Reservoir Dam?
Pisgah 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 Pisgah Reservoir Dam?
Pisgah Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Pisgah Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Pisgah Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.