Upper City Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper City Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 215 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 50 acres |
| Drainage Area | 64 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,128 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2014 |
| NID ID | NH00389 |
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
CITY OF ROCHESTER
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Upper City Dam?
Upper City 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 Upper City Dam?
Upper City Dam is owned by CITY OF ROCHESTER (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper City Dam built?
Upper City Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Upper City Dam?
Upper City 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 Upper City Dam?
Upper City 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 Upper City Dam last inspected?
Upper City Dam was last inspected on August 6, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.