Seaver Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

The Seaver Reservoir Dam, located in Harrisville, New Hampshire, was completed in 1924 and serves as a vital water resource for the area.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam has a height of 30 feet and a length of 300 feet, creating a storage capacity of 495 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Minnewawa Brook and is regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the Seaver Reservoir Dam has been classified with a high hazard potential due to its location and design. While the risk assessment is moderate, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway to manage potential overflow. Regular inspections are conducted to maintain the dam's safety and integrity, with the last inspection date recorded in June 2020. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are essential components in ensuring the safety of the surrounding community in case of any unforeseen events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Seaver Reservoir Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. Its historical significance, recreational value, and impact on the local environment make it a focal point for understanding the complexities of water resource management. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water systems, the Seaver Reservoir Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices and proactive risk management in safeguarding critical water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

MINNEWAWA BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39.5

Drainage Area

4.4

Nid Storage

495

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.