Hatfields

Cocheco River· Strafford, New Hampshire· Built 1937· Concrete· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Local Government

Key Takeaway

Hatfields is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 70.9% in NH)
Dam Length106 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage6 acre-ft
Normal Storage6 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area64 sq mi
Max Discharge7,397 cfs
Year Completed1937 (89 years old)
NID IDNH83018

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 20, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NHDES DAM BUREAU

Ownership

City of Rochester

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hatfields?

Hatfields 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 Hatfields?

Hatfields is owned by City of Rochester (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hatfields built?

Hatfields was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Hatfields?

Hatfields 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 Hatfields?

Hatfields has a dam height of 20 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 Hatfields last inspected?

Hatfields was last inspected on July 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.