Hanover Center Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hanover Center Reservoir Dam, located in Grafton County, New Hampshire, stands as a critical water supply structure for the city of Hanover.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam boasts a height of 30 feet and a length of 943 feet, with a storage capacity of 413 acre-feet. Managed by the local government and regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau, the dam is designed to withstand high-hazard potential and is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition.

The dam's primary purpose is water supply, drawing from the North Branch Mink Brook to serve the area's needs. With a moderate risk level and a regular inspection frequency of every two years, the Hanover Center Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating potential climate impacts in the region. Despite its high-hazard potential, the dam's condition and regulatory oversight ensure its continued safe operation for the community.

As a significant piece of infrastructure in the region, the Hanover Center Reservoir Dam represents a vital link in the water supply chain for Hanover. With its earth construction and buttress core, the dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and serves as a safeguard against water scarcity in the area. The dam's controlled spillway and maximum discharge capacity of 2380 cubic feet per second further highlight its importance in managing water flow and preventing potential flooding events.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

943

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH MINK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

413

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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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.