Sunapee Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Sunapee Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1872 and is 154 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 42.1% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 80 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 40.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 19.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4,090 acres |
| Drainage Area | 45 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,285 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1872 (154 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1927 |
| NID ID | NH00108 |
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
NH DES WATER DIVISION
State Government
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High Hazard 15 ftStar Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sunapee Lake Dam?
Sunapee 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 Sunapee Lake Dam?
Sunapee Lake 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 Sunapee Lake Dam built?
Sunapee Lake Dam was completed in 1872, making it 154 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 Sunapee Lake Dam?
Sunapee 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 Sunapee Lake Dam?
Sunapee Lake Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Sunapee Lake Dam last inspected?
Sunapee Lake Dam was last inspected on October 27, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.