Russell Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Russell Reservoir Dam, located in Harrisville, New Hampshire, is a vital structure managed by the Local Government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1923, this Earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 275 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 141.9 acre-feet. The dam, built on TR Minnewawa Brook, serves as a popular recreational spot with a surface area of 24.7 acres and a drainage area of 11.1 square miles.

Despite its age, the dam is well-maintained with a fair condition assessment and a low hazard potential. The NHDES DAM BUREAU oversees the state-regulated dam, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The spillway, with a width of 91 feet, handles a maximum discharge of 1450 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Overall, Russell Reservoir Dam is a crucial infrastructure that not only offers recreational opportunities but also plays a significant role in water resource management in Cheshire County, New Hampshire. Its historical significance, combined with its functional importance, highlights the need for continued maintenance and risk mitigation efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential resource for years to come.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR MINNEWAWA BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24.7

Drainage Area

11.1

Nid Storage

141.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.