Noone Mills Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Noone Mills, a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Peterborough, New Hampshire, has been a significant part of the region's water resource infrastructure since its completion in 1938.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 13.7 feet, with a length of 176 feet, and a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet. Situated on the Contoocook River, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing hydroelectric power to the area.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Noone Mills has a spillway width of 102 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 8800 cubic feet per second. With a significant hazard potential, the dam undergoes regular inspections and is equipped with a vertical lift outlet gate to ensure operational safety. Despite its age, the dam continues to contribute to the region's water resource management and renewable energy production.
As a concrete gravity dam with masonry components, Noone Mills exemplifies the blend of traditional engineering techniques with modern regulatory standards. Its location within the Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between harnessing water resources for energy production while safeguarding against potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
176 |
Dam Height |
13.7 |
River Or Stream |
Contoocook River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
19 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
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.
Noone Mills
Cunningham Pond boat launch