Pittsfield Mill Dam
Key Takeaway
Pittsfield Mill 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 | 21 ft (taller than 74.5% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 470 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 212 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 112 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 131 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,290 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1962 |
| NID ID | NH00120 |
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 DES WATER DIVISION
State Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 15 ftPittsfield Sewage Lagoon Dam
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Significant Hazard 18 ftBerry Pond Dam
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High Hazard 18 ftWong Wildlife Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 19 ftBarnstead Parade Dam
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High Hazard 16 ftSanborn Sawmill Dam
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High Hazard 13 ftSanborn Pond Grist Mill Dam
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High Hazard 16 ftRollins Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pittsfield Mill Dam?
Pittsfield Mill 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 Pittsfield Mill Dam?
Pittsfield Mill Dam is owned by NH DES WATER DIVISION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pittsfield Mill Dam built?
Pittsfield Mill 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 Pittsfield Mill Dam?
Pittsfield Mill 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 Pittsfield Mill Dam?
Pittsfield Mill Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Pittsfield Mill Dam last inspected?
Pittsfield Mill Dam was last inspected on December 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.