Spectacle Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Spectacle Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 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 | 7 ft (taller than 1.4% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 46 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 140 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 115 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 58 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2011 |
| NID ID | NH00043 |
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
SPECTACLE POND ASSOCIATION
Private
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Spectacle Pond Dam?
Spectacle 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 Spectacle Pond Dam?
Spectacle Pond Dam is owned by SPECTACLE POND ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Spectacle Pond Dam built?
Spectacle Pond Dam was completed in 1915, making it 111 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 Spectacle Pond Dam?
Spectacle 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 Spectacle Pond Dam?
Spectacle Pond Dam has a dam height of 7 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 Spectacle Pond Dam last inspected?
Spectacle Pond Dam was last inspected on October 22, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.