Dodge Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Dodge Falls, also known as Ryegate Paper Company Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Wells River, VT along the Connecticut River in Grafton, New Hampshire.


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Summary

This timber crib dam was completed in 1905 and stands at a height of 18 feet, with a length of 485 feet. It serves the primary purposes of hydroelectric power generation and water supply, encompassing a storage capacity of 4940 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2215 square miles.

Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Dodge Falls has a low hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 375 feet and outlet gates for water control. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the structure has not undergone recent condition assessments but has an emergency action plan updated in January 2021, ensuring preparedness for any unforeseen events. Dodge Falls presents an intriguing site for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing a blend of historical significance and modern-day functionality in the realm of hydroelectric infrastructure.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

485

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Connecticut River

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

290

Drainage Area

2215

Nid Storage

4940

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2, Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.