Cocheco Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thornwood Commons Pond Dam Watson
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Cocheco Falls, also known as Central Avenue Dam, is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in Dover, New Hampshire.
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Summary
Constructed in 1930, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans 150 feet in length, harnessing the power of the Cocheco River to generate hydroelectricity. With a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 6000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in providing renewable energy to the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, Cocheco Falls is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a spillway width of 140 feet and a significant hazard potential, this dam poses a moderate risk that is carefully managed through risk assessment and emergency action planning. Despite its age, Cocheco Falls continues to contribute to the sustainable development of the area, reflecting the intersection of water resources and climate considerations in modern infrastructure.
As a key player in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's portfolio, Cocheco Falls exemplifies the integration of hydroelectric power generation with environmental stewardship. Its location in the Strafford County of New Hampshire and its proximity to the Cocheco River make it a vital component of the region's water management system, with a drainage area of 187 square miles and a surface area of 55 acres. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cocheco Falls offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of technology, policy, and nature in the quest for sustainable energy solutions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Cocheco River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
55 |
Drainage Area |
187 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Cocheco Falls
Willand Pond boat launch