Melvin River Dam
Key Takeaway
Melvin River Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 17 ft (taller than 59.6% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 150 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 33 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 30 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1952 |
| NID ID | NH00887 |
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
NH FISH AND GAME DEPARTMENT
State Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 16 ftShannon Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 10 ftBig Dan Hole Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftWolfeboro Sewage Lagoon Dam
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High Hazard 45 ftCrescent Lake Dam
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High Hazard 15 ftLake Kanasatka Dam
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Significant Hazard 17 ftDan Hole River Dam
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Significant Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Melvin River Dam?
Melvin River Dam 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 Melvin River Dam?
Melvin River Dam is owned by NH FISH AND GAME DEPARTMENT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Melvin River Dam built?
Melvin River Dam 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 Melvin River Dam?
Melvin River Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Melvin River Dam?
Melvin River Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Melvin River Dam last inspected?
Melvin River Dam was last inspected on October 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.