Avery Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lakeport Pheasant Ridge Cc Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Avery, located in Laconia, New Hampshire, is a privately owned dam that plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation on the Winnipesaukee River.
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Summary
Built in 1947, this concrete structure stands at a height of 13.3 feet and has a dam length of 114 feet. With a storage capacity of 3700 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5960 cubic feet per second, Avery serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and recreation in addition to its primary function of hydroelectric power generation.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, Avery is regulated and inspected at both the state and federal levels. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its operations and inspections, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, Avery is subject to a very high risk assessment due to its critical role in water resource management and energy production in the region. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.
With its controlled spillway, two slide gates, and a spillway width of 90 feet, Avery is equipped to handle various water flow scenarios and maintain water levels in the reservoir. As a significant structure in the Belknap County landscape, Avery stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and the integration of renewable energy sources in the region. Its history, design, and operational efficiency make it a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental conservation.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
114 |
Dam Height |
13.3 |
River Or Stream |
Winnipesaukee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
455 |
Drainage Area |
374 |
Nid Storage |
3700 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Avery
Lake Winnipesaukee At Weirs Beach
Beacon Street West 53, Laconia
Begins In Franklin To Sewall'S Island