Allied Leather Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Allied Leather Forebay, also known as Penacook Lower Falls Forebay, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Concord, New Hampshire.


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Summary

Constructed in 1982, this concrete structure stands 15 feet tall and spans 106 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. It is regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

With a hazard potential rated as low and a very high risk assessment score of 1, Allied Leather Forebay is a critical piece of infrastructure on the Contoocook River. The dam features a controlled spillway, outlet gates for water release, and a surface area of 8.4 acres. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not currently available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation.

This hydroelectric facility plays a vital role in harnessing the river's energy for power generation, reflecting a commitment to sustainable water resource management in the region. With its strategic location and significant impact on the local environment, Allied Leather Forebay serves as a testament to the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and renewable energy production in New Hampshire.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

106

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Contoocook River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8.4

Drainage Area

766

Nid Storage

94

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Vertical Lift - 4

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.