Cheshire Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Cheshire, also known as White Dam, is a private masonry dam located in Jaffrey, New Hampshire, along the Contoocook River.
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Summary
Completed in 1939, this dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and stands at a height of 13 feet with a length of 255 feet. With a storage capacity of 342 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2300 cubic feet per second, Cheshire plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by the NHDES Dam Bureau and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Cheshire has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and a single slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam undergoes inspections every three years, with the last inspection conducted in June 2018. Despite its age, Cheshire continues to contribute to the renewable energy sector and remains a key asset in the local water infrastructure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Cheshire as an example of sustainable hydroelectric infrastructure that has stood the test of time. Its historical significance, combined with its operational efficiency and regulatory oversight, make it a noteworthy structure in Cheshire County, New Hampshire. As concerns about climate change and water scarcity grow, dams like Cheshire play a vital role in harnessing clean energy and ensuring water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
255 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
Contoocook River |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
57 |
Drainage Area |
36 |
Nid Storage |
342 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Wanocksett
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Mt Monadnock State Park Campground
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Lake Dennison State Park
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North Dennison Camping Area
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Cheshire
Contoocook Lake boat launch