Rochester Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
The Rochester Reservoir Dam, located in Rochester, New Hampshire, was completed in 1935 and serves as a vital water supply structure for the region.
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Summary
Owned by the local government, the dam is regulated by the NHDES DAM BUREAU and undergoes regular inspections, with a hazard potential deemed high but the overall condition assessed as satisfactory. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 668 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 745.9 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.48 square miles, providing essential water resources for the community.
Despite its age, the Rochester Reservoir Dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a spillway width of 20 feet to handle potential overflow. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, and emergency action plans are in place to ensure the safety of surrounding residents in case of any unforeseen events. With a focus on water supply, this Earth dam with a buttress core type stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and managing our water infrastructure to meet the needs of a changing climate.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Rochester Reservoir Dam offers a fascinating example of how man-made structures can adapt to evolving environmental conditions. With its historical significance dating back to the 1930s, the dam provides a critical link in the water supply chain for Rochester and surrounding areas. As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, the management and maintenance of structures like the Rochester Reservoir Dam are essential to ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply for future generations.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
668 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
HOWARD BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
52.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.48 |
Nid Storage |
745.9 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Rochester Reservoir Dam
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