Rowe Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Rowe Dam, located in Milton, New Hampshire, is a concrete structure built in 1935 on the Salmon Falls River.


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Summary

Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 90 acres and a drainage area of 29.6 square miles. With a height of 14.7 feet and a length of 160 feet, Rowe Dam has a storage capacity of 467 acre-feet, providing a picturesque setting for water sports and outdoor activities.

The dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of July 2012. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 1137 cubic feet per second. Despite not having any associated locks, Rowe Dam stands as a popular spot for visitors seeking recreational opportunities along the Salmon Falls River. With its serene surroundings and historical significance, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Rowe Dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date yet to be determined. Regular inspections are conducted every 6 years, ensuring that the dam remains safe and operational for the community. As a key feature on the river, Rowe Dam exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment and environmental preservation, making it a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

14.7

River Or Stream

SALMON FALLS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

90

Drainage Area

29.6

Nid Storage

467

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.