Minnewawa, a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Marlborough, New Hampshire, stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering excellence.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1923, this concrete arch dam boasts a height of 63 feet and a length of 265 feet, harnessing the power of Minnewawa Brook to generate electricity. With a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area, providing a maximum discharge of 1700 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Minnewawa Dam has a high hazard potential due to its size and location. Despite its age, the dam remains in moderate condition, with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. Emergency action plans are in place, although the last inspection in September 2020 highlighted the need for further assessment of the dam's structural integrity.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Minnewawa Dam a fascinating example of early hydraulic engineering in New Hampshire. Its historical significance, combined with its continued operation as a hydroelectric facility, makes it a key player in the region's energy infrastructure. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and monitoring dams like Minnewawa become increasingly important to ensure their safety and functionality for future generations.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
Minnewawa Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
23 |
Nid Storage |
155 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
63 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Wheelock Park Campground
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Mt Monadnock State Park Campground
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Camp Wanocksett
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Pilgrim Pines Camping Area
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Swanzey Lake Camping Area
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