Cocheco Falls
Key Takeaway
Cocheco Falls is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 10.9% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 150 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 55 acres |
| Drainage Area | 187 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | NH00547 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Dover
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Thornwood Commons Pond Dam
Strafford, NH
Significant Hazard 16 ftWatson
Strafford, NH
Low Hazard 12 ftLower Great Falls
Strafford, NH
Significant Hazard 36 ftSouth Berwick
York, ME
Low Hazard 38 ftSouth Berwick
Strafford, NH
Low Hazard 18 ftSomersworth
Strafford, NH
Significant Hazard 17 ftRollinsford
Strafford, NH
Significant Hazard 20 ftBeards Creek Dam
Strafford, NH
Significant Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cocheco Falls?
Cocheco Falls is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cocheco Falls?
Cocheco Falls is owned by City of Dover (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cocheco Falls built?
Cocheco Falls was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Cocheco Falls?
Cocheco Falls 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 Cocheco Falls?
Cocheco Falls has a dam height of 9 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 Cocheco Falls last inspected?
Cocheco Falls was last inspected on July 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.