Sugar River I, also known as Gordon Woolen Mill Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Newport, New Hampshire.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1928, this concrete buttress dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 123 feet in length. Its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a drainage area of 74 square miles.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, Sugar River I is regulated and permitted at the state level, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its safety and compliance. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 93 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2300 cubic feet per second. While the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, its risk assessment is moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sugar River I presents a fascinating case study of a historic hydroelectric dam in New Hampshire. With its scenic location along the Sugar River and significant contribution to renewable energy production, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural resources. By understanding its design, purpose, and regulatory framework, enthusiasts can gain insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
123 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Sugar River |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
74 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |