Spofford Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Spofford Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1919 and is 107 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 23.8% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 83 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 10.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 731 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 550 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1919 (107 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1999 |
| NID ID | NH00356 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TOWN OF CHESTERFIELD
Local Government
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Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Spofford Lake Dam?
Spofford Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Spofford Lake Dam?
Spofford Lake Dam is owned by TOWN OF CHESTERFIELD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Spofford Lake Dam built?
Spofford Lake Dam was completed in 1919, making it 107 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 Spofford Lake Dam?
Spofford 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 Spofford Lake Dam?
Spofford Lake Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Spofford Lake Dam last inspected?
Spofford Lake Dam was last inspected on November 20, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.