Summary
Brodie Smith, also known as Smith Dam, is a private hydroelectric structure located in Coos County, New Hampshire, along the Androscoggin River. Completed in 1948, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 550 feet, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES DAM BUREAU) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level, J. Brodie Smith is a critical infrastructure for water resource and climate management in the region. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 476 feet and is equipped with outlet gates for water release. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the dam undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety.
As a key component of the hydroelectric network in New Hampshire, J. Brodie Smith plays a vital role in water storage, flood control, and power generation. With its strategic location and significant impact on the surrounding environment, the dam's management and maintenance are essential for sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Its association with federal and state agencies underscores the collaborative effort to ensure the safety and efficiency of this crucial infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
Androscoggin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1372 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Outlet Gates |
Bascule - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Androscoggin River Near Gorham
|
2640cfs |
Wild River At Gilead
|
48cfs |
Upper Ammonoosuc River Near Groveton
|
257cfs |
Androscoggin River At Errol
|
1500cfs |
Ellis River At South Andover
|
74cfs |
Ammonoosuc River At Bethlehem Junction
|
144cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Trident Col Tentsite
|
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Gentian Pond Shelter
|
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Moose Brook State Park
|
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Rattle River Shelter
|
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Milan Hill State Park
|
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Barnes Field Group Campground
|
J. Brodie Smith
Overlook Road 123, Milan