Souhegan River Site 12a South Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Located in Temple, New Hampshire, Souhegan River Site 12a South, also known as Senator Charles W Tobey Dam, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along Richardson Brook.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 37.7 feet with a storage capacity of 3,310 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5.4 square miles. The dam, regulated by the NHDES DAM BUREAU, has a spillway width of 3 feet and a maximum discharge of 8,483 cubic feet per second.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, Souhegan River Site 12a South serves as a crucial element in managing flood risk in the region. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The site is under state jurisdiction and is permitted, inspected, and enforced by the New Hampshire authorities, highlighting the commitment to maintaining the safety and functionality of this essential water resource infrastructure in Hillsborough County.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
37.7 |
River Or Stream |
RICHARDSON BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
108 |
Drainage Area |
5.4 |
Nid Storage |
3310 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Souhegan River Site 12a South
Cunningham Pond boat launch