Lower Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1893 and is 133 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 | 33 ft (taller than 89.6% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 1,023 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 537 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 438 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 43 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 325 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1893 (133 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1955 |
| NID ID | NH00048 |
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 HANOVER
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 7 ftBoston Lot Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 25 ftUnion Village Dam
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High Hazard 164 ftWilder
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High Hazard 59 ftRivermill Mascoma Hydro Dam
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High Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Reservoir Dam?
Lower 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 Lower Reservoir Dam?
Lower Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF HANOVER (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Reservoir Dam built?
Lower Reservoir Dam was completed in 1893, making it 133 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 Lower Reservoir Dam?
Lower 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 Lower Reservoir Dam?
Lower Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Lower Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Lower Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 12, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.