Otis Falls Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Otis Falls, also known as Otis Company Dam No.1, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Greenville, New Hampshire.
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Summary
Built in 1982, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 150 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2450 cubic feet per second, Otis Falls plays a crucial role in harnessing the energy of the Souhegan River.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Otis Falls serves as a vital component of New Hampshire's water resource infrastructure. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam remains a key player in the state's hydroelectric sector. With a spillway width of 94 feet and an inspection frequency of 3 years, Otis Falls continues to operate efficiently and effectively in generating clean energy while supporting the surrounding ecosystem.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Otis Falls represents a harmonious blend of human innovation and environmental stewardship. Through its commitment to sustainable hydroelectric power generation and adherence to rigorous safety standards, Otis Falls stands as a symbol of responsible water management in the face of climate change challenges. As a privately owned facility with strong state and federal oversight, Otis Falls exemplifies the delicate balance between energy production and ecological preservation in the modern era.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
Souhegan River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
30 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Otis Falls
Melendy Pond boat launch