Stevens Mill Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Stevens Mill, also known as Franklin Dam, is a private hydroelectric facility located in Franklin, New Hampshire.
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Summary
Constructed in 1930, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 112 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 6.85 acre-feet and the ability to discharge up to 2600 cubic feet per second, Stevens Mill plays a significant role in harnessing hydropower from the Winnipesaukee River.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Stevens Mill is deemed to have a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and there are no specific risk management measures outlined. Emergency action plans have been prepared and reviewed periodically, with the last revision in December 2020, to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam in case of an unforeseen event.
Stevens Mill serves as a crucial part of New Hampshire's water resource infrastructure, contributing to the state's renewable energy portfolio through hydroelectric power generation. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, it is important to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Stevens Mill to ensure their continued effectiveness and safety in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
112 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Winnipesaukee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
488 |
Nid Storage |
6.85 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Merrimack River At Franklin Junction
|
857cfs |
Winnipesaukee River At Tilton
|
85cfs |
Smith River Near Bristol
|
35cfs |
Blackwater River Near Webster
|
19cfs |
Warner River At Davisville
|
50cfs |
Soucook River
|
22cfs |
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.
Stevens Mill
Lake Winnipesaukee At Weirs Beach
Webster Lake boat launch
Begins In Franklin To Sewall'S Island