Cheshire Mills Lower Dam
Key Takeaway
Cheshire Mills Lower Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1848 and is 178 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 18 ft (taller than 63.5% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 50 ft |
| Dam Type | Stone |
| Max Storage | 2 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 456 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1848 (178 years old) |
| NID ID | NH02080 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
HISTORIC HARRISVILLE INC
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Cheshire Mills Lower Dam?
Cheshire Mills Lower Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cheshire Mills Lower Dam?
Cheshire Mills Lower Dam is owned by HISTORIC HARRISVILLE INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cheshire Mills Lower Dam built?
Cheshire Mills Lower Dam was completed in 1848, making it 178 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Cheshire Mills Lower Dam?
Cheshire Mills Lower Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cheshire Mills Lower Dam?
Cheshire Mills Lower Dam has a dam height of 18 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Cheshire Mills Lower Dam last inspected?
Cheshire Mills Lower Dam was last inspected on August 25, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.