Pierce is a private hydroelectric dam located on the Contoocook River in Bennington, New Hampshire.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1921, this buttress-type dam stands at a height of 12.4 feet and has a length of 420 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 33 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 13,400 cubic feet per second, Pierce serves the dual purposes of hydroelectric power generation and water supply for the region.
Owned and regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, Pierce is also under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and undergoes regular inspections by FERC to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, Pierce is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate drainage area of 191 square miles.
Overall, Pierce is a vital part of the water resource infrastructure in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire. Its historical significance, combined with its modern regulatory oversight and operational efficiency, make it a key player in the region's water management and energy production efforts. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pierce represents a blend of tradition and innovation in the sustainable utilization of water resources for the benefit of the community.
Year Completed |
1921 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
12.4 |
River Or Stream |
Contoocook River |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
191 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |