Exeter Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Exeter Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1886 and is 140 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 15 ft (taller than 47.8% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 248 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 177 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 126 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 26 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,712 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1886 (140 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1973 |
| NID ID | NH00267 |
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
TOWN OF EXETER PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Exeter Sewage Lagoon Dam
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Significant Hazard 19 ftPiscassic Ice Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 12 ftPickpocket Dam
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High Hazard 15 ftTaylor River Pond Dam
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Unknown 14 ftBodwell Septage Facility Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftTaylor River Pond Dam
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High Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Exeter Reservoir Dam?
Exeter Reservoir 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 Exeter Reservoir Dam?
Exeter Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF EXETER PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Exeter Reservoir Dam built?
Exeter Reservoir Dam was completed in 1886, making it 140 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 Exeter Reservoir Dam?
Exeter Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Exeter Reservoir Dam?
Exeter Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Exeter Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Exeter Reservoir Dam was last inspected on June 2, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.