Franklin Falls Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Franklin Falls Dam, also known as Dry Reservoir, is a rockfill dam located in Franklin, New Hampshire, along the Pemigewasset River.


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Summary

Built in 1943 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at 116 feet in height and spans 1,740 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 222,000 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial infrastructure to manage water levels and prevent potential flooding in the area.

With a hazard potential rated as high, the dam is regularly inspected and monitored by the US Army Corps of Engineers to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite the risks associated with dams and potential for flood events, the USACE implements comprehensive risk management measures for Franklin Falls Dam. This includes ongoing maintenance, emergency action planning, and collaboration with local authorities to prepare for and respond to any dam-related emergencies. The USACE's commitment to safety and public awareness underscores its dedication to safeguarding communities and water resources in the region.

In the face of changing climate patterns and increased weather variability, Franklin Falls Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting downstream areas. By proactively managing the dam's operations and coordinating with local stakeholders, the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures the resilience and safety of this essential water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

1740

Dam Height

116

River Or Stream

PEMIGEWASSET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

440

Hydraulic Height

112

Drainage Area

1000

Nid Storage

222000

Structural Height

116

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

116
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.