Upper Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Hampshire. It was completed in 1924 and is 102 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 | 30 ft (taller than 86.7% in NH) |
| Dam Length | 1,340 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 427 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 321 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 35 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 510 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1924 (102 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2012 |
| NID ID | NH00049 |
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
Lower Reservoir Dam
Grafton, NH
High Hazard 33 ftStorrs Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 34 ftHanover Center Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 30 ftFerson Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftBoston Lot Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 25 ftLebanon Water Treatment Intake Dam
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Significant Hazard 16 ftRivermill Mascoma Hydro Dam
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High Hazard 22 ftWilder
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High Hazard 59 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Reservoir Dam?
Upper 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 Upper Reservoir Dam?
Upper 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 Upper Reservoir Dam built?
Upper Reservoir Dam was completed in 1924, making it 102 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 Upper Reservoir Dam?
Upper 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 Upper Reservoir Dam?
Upper Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Upper Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Upper Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 12, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.