Located in Boscawen, New Hampshire, the York Dam, also known as Contoocook Park Dam, is a state-owned structure regulating the flow of the Contoocook River.
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Built in 1967 for hydroelectric purposes, this concrete gravity dam stands at 10 feet tall and spans 230 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet, it serves as a crucial component of the region's water resource management system.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau and regulated by both state and federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the York Dam plays a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient water flow and storage. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and monitoring to maintain its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of continued oversight and maintenance to mitigate potential risks.
In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 170 feet to manage excess water flow. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated in accordance with guidelines. Overall, the York Dam stands as a key infrastructure asset in the region's water resource management efforts, providing both hydroelectric power generation and flood control benefits to the surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Contoocook River |
Surface Area |
50 |
Drainage Area |
760 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |