Moore Reservoir

Moore Reservoir is a significant impoundment on the Connecticut River, located primarily in Grafton County, New Hampshire. It was created in the mid-20th century for hydroelectric power generation and forms part of a series of dams managed along the river. The reservoir provides substantial opportunities for outdoor recreation while also playing a crucial role in regional energy infrastructure and river ecology.

Geography and Hydrology

The reservoir is situated along the northern stretch of the Connecticut River, which forms the border between New Hampshire and Vermont. Its waters flood a valley within the New England Uplands, with the primary inflow and outflow being the Connecticut River itself. The impoundment is located near the town of Littleton, New Hampshire, and is part of the larger Connecticut River watershed that drains into Long Island Sound. Key geographical features around its shores include forested hills and several smaller tributary streams that feed into the main body. The hydrology is managed through releases from the Moore Dam, which directly influences water levels and flow rates downstream towards Comerford Reservoir and other projects on the river.

History and Construction

Planning for the reservoir and its associated dam began in the post-World War II era by the New England Power Company, a subsidiary of the New England Electric System. Construction on the Moore Dam commenced in the early 1950s as part of a larger initiative to develop the hydroelectric potential of the Connecticut River. The project required significant engineering efforts and labor, culminating in the dam's completion and the reservoir's filling in 1956. The creation of the reservoir inundated previous landscapes, including some historical farmland and riverine habitats, transforming the local geography. It was named in recognition of a prominent figure associated with the utility company's history, following a common practice for such infrastructure projects in the region during that period.

Recreation and Tourism

The reservoir is a popular destination for a variety of water-based and shoreline activities, contributing to the tourism economy of the White Mountains region. It supports extensive boating, with public access available at a New Hampshire Fish and Game Department boat launch, and is known for its fishing opportunities for species like smallmouth bass and landlocked salmon. The surrounding area features several parks and picnic areas, such as those maintained by the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation. During winter months, the frozen surface attracts ice fishing enthusiasts. The scenic backdrop of the New England countryside and proximity to routes like U.S. Route 302 make it a accessible recreational asset for residents and visitors alike.

Environmental and Ecological Aspects

As a managed river impoundment, it creates a distinct lacustrine environment that supports both native and introduced aquatic species. The fluctuating water levels can impact shoreline vegetation and habitat for wildlife, including species like bald eagle and osprey that forage in the area. Water quality is monitored as part of broader efforts for the Connecticut River, with considerations for temperature, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient loads. The reservoir's operation is coordinated with other dams, like Comerford Dam, under guidelines from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to balance power generation with environmental flow requirements. These managed flows aim to protect downstream ecosystems and species such as migratory fish.

Dam and Infrastructure

The Moore Dam is a concrete gravity dam that stands approximately 110 feet high and spans 2,280 feet across the Connecticut River. It is equipped with a powerhouse containing multiple turbine generators, contributing electricity to the New England power grid operated by ISO New England. The facility is part of the Connecticut River hydroelectric project chain, which includes upstream dams like Murphy Dam and downstream structures such as Comerford Dam. The dam's spillway and gate systems are designed for flood control and safe water passage, with operations coordinated with the Army Corps of Engineers during high-flow events. This critical infrastructure requires ongoing maintenance and upgrades to ensure reliability and compliance with modern safety and environmental standards. Category:Reservoirs in New Hampshire Category:Grafton County, New Hampshire Category:Dams in New Hampshire