First Connecticut Lake Dam, located in Pittsburg, New Hampshire, stands as a vital structure along the Connecticut River, serving a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1930, this earth dam boasts a height of 56 feet and a length of 1117 feet, providing a storage capacity of 114,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 2800 acres. With a maximum discharge capacity of 20,600 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 338 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its age, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, ensuring its structural integrity and operational safety. The dam has a fair condition assessment as of June 2015, with a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam meets guidelines for emergency action plans, there is room for improvement in terms of risk management measures and inundation mapping. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find First Connecticut Lake Dam to be a fascinating example of infrastructure that combines historical significance with environmental stewardship and hydroelectric innovation.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
1117 |
Dam Height |
56 |
River Or Stream |
CONNECTICUT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2800 |
Drainage Area |
82 |
Nid Storage |
114000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
56 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Francis State Park
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Deer Mountain
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Deer Mountain Campground
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Coleman State Park
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