Garvins Falls in Bow, New Hampshire, is a captivating hydroelectric dam located on the Merrimack River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1901, this masonry dam stands at 18 feet tall and stretches 645 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 7,200 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with a maximum discharge capacity of 113,000 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Garvins Falls is state-regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau, ensuring proper inspection, enforcement, and permitting. Despite being categorized as low hazard potential, the risk assessment for this dam is considered moderate. With its uncontrolled spillway measuring 550 feet wide, Garvins Falls plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Garvins Falls offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of renewable energy production, infrastructure management, and environmental stewardship. With its historic significance, impressive engineering design, and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a vital component of the Merrimack River ecosystem and a symbol of sustainable water resource utilization in New Hampshire.
Year Completed |
1901 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Merrimack River |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
504 |
Drainage Area |
2427 |
Nid Storage |
7200 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |