Balsams Mohawk River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Balsams Mohawk River Dam, located in Dixville, New Hampshire, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Situated on the Mohawk River, this earth dam stands at a height of 55 feet with a length of 220 feet, offering a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type, has a width of 6 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 370 cubic feet per second.
Although the dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, it is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in June 2019. The risk assessment for Balsams Mohawk River Dam indicates a moderate risk level, as per the data available. The structure falls under the jurisdiction of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau and is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with relevant standards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Balsams Mohawk River Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural waterways, highlighting the importance of responsible management and maintenance practices for sustainable use and enjoyment.
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
MOHAWK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.3 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
55 |
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.
Balsams Mohawk River Dam