Swains Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Swains Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 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 | 17 ft (taller than 59.6% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 433 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 418 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 357 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1935 |
| NID ID | NH00232 |
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
TOWN OF BARRINGTON
Local Government
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Low Hazard 9 ftNottingham Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 24 ftRochester Sewage Lagoon Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Swains Lake Dam?
Swains Lake 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 Swains Lake Dam?
Swains Lake Dam is owned by TOWN OF BARRINGTON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swains Lake Dam built?
Swains Lake Dam was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Swains Lake Dam?
Swains 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 Swains Lake Dam?
Swains Lake Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Swains Lake Dam last inspected?
Swains Lake Dam was last inspected on July 30, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.