Riverside Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Located in Berlin, New Hampshire, Riverside is a hydroelectric dam on the Androscoggin River with a primary purpose of generating power and providing water supply.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this dam boasts a height of 21 feet and a length of 846 feet, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway width of 690 feet, Riverside has a low hazard potential and is regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

This dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the energy potential of the Androscoggin River while also ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding area. Despite its age, Riverside remains in good condition, with inspections conducted regularly by both state and federal agencies. With a very high risk assessment rating, emergency action plans are in place to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community in the event of a dam failure.

Riverside serves as a prime example of how hydroelectric infrastructure can contribute to sustainable energy production and water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water availability and energy needs, dams like Riverside play a vital role in adapting to these challenges and providing a reliable source of renewable energy and water supply for the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

846

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Androscoggin River

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

1338

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.