Brooklyn Dam Hydroelectric Project: Planned Maintenance Notification

Strategic Insights -

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has received a notification from Ampersand Brooklyn Dam Hydro LLC regarding planned maintenance work on the Brooklyn Dam Hydroelectric Project, located in Groveton, New Hampshire. The 30-day notification proposes a drawdown of the water level to replace boards on the downstream face of the dam, as recommended by FERC inspection results dated July 28, 2025. During the drawdown, additional maintenance tasks will be performed, including inspection of trash racks, repair/replacement of the bubbler system, and monitoring for potential wildlife impacts.

Key Takeaways:

  • The planned maintenance work on the Brooklyn Dam Hydroelectric Project is proposed to start in early-September and is expected to last for a week.
  • The drawdown will be carried out in accordance with Standard A-2 Agency recommendations, with a maximum dewatering rate of six inches or less per day and a refill rate limit of 90% of inflow to be released below the dam.
  • The project will be subject to monitoring for wildlife impacts and potential effects on downstream water levels.
  • The maintenance work includes the inspection of trash racks, repair/replacement of the bubbler system, and other miscellaneous tasks.
  • Ongoing coordination and communication will be maintained with regulatory agencies, including NHDES (New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services), to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines.
  • The project will adhere to standard protocols and practices to minimize any potential disruptions or impacts on the environment.

Statistics:

  • The drawdown is expected to start in early-September (September 1-7).
  • The duration of the drawdown and maintenance work is anticipated to be one week.
  • The dewatering rate will not exceed six inches or less per day.
  • The refill rate limit will be set at 90% of inflow to be released below the dam.
  • The maintenance work will focus on inspecting trash racks, repairing/replacing the bubbler system, and monitoring for wildlife impacts.

Sources:

  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 888 First Street, N.E., Room 1A Washington, DC 20246 (Project File No. P-13806)
  • Communication from Pam Kathan, Brooklyn Dam Site Manager, to Secretary Reese, dated August [Current Date] (exact date not specified)
  • NHDES Communication from Dan Demers, NHDES Water Quality Certification Supervisor, to Pam Kathan