Summary
Completed in 1920, the dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 215 feet, providing a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 138 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 8,128 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, Upper City Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and functionality. With a hazard potential rated as significant and a condition assessment of fair, the dam poses a moderate risk, prompting regular inspections every four years. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains a vital structure for both water resource management and recreational activities in the area.
Overall, Upper City Dam serves as a key component in the local water infrastructure, providing both storage capacity and recreational opportunities along the Cochecho River. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and management of dams like Upper City Dam will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water systems in New Hampshire and beyond.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
215 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
COCHECO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
50 |
Drainage Area |
64 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Upper City Dam
Baxter Lake boat launch