Vilas Pool Dam
Key Takeaway
Vilas Pool Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1866 and is 160 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 87.9% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 135 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 72 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 45 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 61 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,002 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1866 (160 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1925 |
| NID ID | NH00009 |
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 ALSTEAD
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 5 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Vilas Pool Dam?
Vilas Pool 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 Vilas Pool Dam?
Vilas Pool Dam is owned by TOWN OF ALSTEAD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Vilas Pool Dam built?
Vilas Pool Dam was completed in 1866, making it 160 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 Vilas Pool Dam?
Vilas Pool 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 Vilas Pool Dam?
Vilas Pool Dam has a dam height of 31 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 Vilas Pool Dam last inspected?
Vilas Pool Dam was last inspected on August 11, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.