Oliverian Dam
Key Takeaway
Oliverian Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 52 ft (taller than 95.2% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 1,060 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 164 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 35,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1988 |
| NID ID | NH00268 |
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
NH DES WATER DIVISION
State Government
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Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Oliverian Dam?
Oliverian 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 Oliverian Dam?
Oliverian Dam is owned by NH DES WATER DIVISION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Oliverian Dam built?
Oliverian Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Oliverian Dam?
Oliverian Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Oliverian Dam?
Oliverian Dam has a dam height of 52 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 Oliverian Dam last inspected?
Oliverian Dam was last inspected on May 5, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.