Smith Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Smith Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1830 and is 196 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 | 12 ft (taller than 28.2% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 367 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 217 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 69 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 414 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1830 (196 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2009 |
| NID ID | NH00073 |
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
UPPER VALLEY LAND TRUST
Private
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Significant Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Smith Pond Dam?
Smith Pond 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 Smith Pond Dam?
Smith Pond Dam is owned by UPPER VALLEY LAND TRUST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smith Pond Dam built?
Smith Pond Dam was completed in 1830, making it 196 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 Smith Pond Dam?
Smith Pond 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 Smith Pond Dam?
Smith Pond Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Smith Pond Dam last inspected?
Smith Pond Dam was last inspected on October 14, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.