Purity Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Purity Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1750 and is 276 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 | 13 ft (taller than 36.5% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 96 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 182 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 162 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 240 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1750 (276 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1944 |
| NID ID | NH00284 |
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
PURITY SPRING RESORT ANDNH AUDDUBON
Private
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High Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Purity Lake Dam?
Purity Lake 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 Purity Lake Dam?
Purity Lake Dam is owned by PURITY SPRING RESORT ANDNH AUDDUBON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Purity Lake Dam built?
Purity Lake Dam was completed in 1750, making it 276 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 Purity Lake Dam?
Purity Lake 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 Purity Lake Dam?
Purity Lake Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Purity Lake Dam last inspected?
Purity Lake Dam was last inspected on September 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.