The Ashuelot River Dam, also known as the West Street Dam, is a concrete structure located in Keene, New Hampshire, on the Ashuelot River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1919, the dam stands at a height of 15.5 feet and has a length of 1860 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, providing a surface area of 34 acres and a normal storage capacity of 120 acre-feet.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau, the Ashuelot River Dam is rated as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While the dam has not been given a formal condition assessment, it is regularly inspected with a frequency of every 6 years. With a maximum discharge capacity of 5500 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 134 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the Ashuelot River and ensuring the safety of downstream areas.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Ashuelot River Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. As a key recreational structure in the region, the dam's history, design, and operational features offer valuable insights into the complex interplay between human infrastructure and natural water systems. Its location on the Ashuelot River, along with its regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness protocols, make it a notable landmark in the ongoing conversation about water resource sustainability and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
1860 |
Dam Height |
15.5 |
River Or Stream |
ASHUELOT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
34 |
Drainage Area |
113 |
Nid Storage |
280 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Wheelock Park Campground
|
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Pilgrim Pines Camping Area
|
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Swanzey Lake Camping Area
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