Sunapee
Key Takeaway
Sunapee is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1856 and is 170 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 47.8% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 71 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 5 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 45 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1856 (170 years old) |
| NID ID | NH01016 |
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 Sunapee, NH
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Sunapee Lake Dam
Sullivan, NH
Significant Hazard 14 ftWendall Marsh Dam
Sullivan, NH
Significant Hazard 15 ftOtter Pond Dam
Sullivan, NH
Low Hazard 12 ftMount Sunapee Sewage Lagoon Dam
Merrimack, NH
Significant Hazard 22 ftGoose Pond Dam
Merrimack, NH
Low Hazard 12 ftDorr Woolen Sewage Lagoon Dam
Sullivan, NH
Significant Hazard 20 ftLoon Lake Dam
Sullivan, NH
High Hazard 15 ftStar Lake Dam
Sullivan, NH
Low Hazard 7 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sunapee?
Sunapee 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?
Sunapee is owned by Town of Sunapee, NH (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sunapee built?
Sunapee was completed in 1856, making it 170 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?
Sunapee serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sunapee?
Sunapee has a dam height of 15 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 last inspected?
Sunapee was last inspected on August 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.