Hooksett Nature-like Fishway (NLF)

Hooksett, New Hampshire | Private Client

The Hooksett Hydroelectric Project includes a 1.6 MW run-of-the-river hydroelectric power generation dam that is a barrier to aquatic organism passage (AOP), including Blueback Herring, American Eel, and American Shad. D&K worked closely with officials from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration regarding the details of the design, including hydraulic characteristics of the weirs and low-flow notches, geometry, layout, and other design elements. We prepared seasonal and annual-flow duration curves for this reach of the Merrimack River and developed river hydraulic simulations for a wide range of discharges through the NLF. Our team provided design and secured permits, including USACE, with NOAA and USFWS support letters, NH Department of Environmental Services, the Town of Hooksett, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Project Elements

• Site surveys and reviews
• Hydrological analysis of USGS gaging station and river discharges, preparation of flow duration cures
• Detailed hydraulic analysis of multiple NLF geometry and configurations
• Structural stability evaluation and strength design of six concrete weirs
• Inflatable dam crest for water level and flow control

  • Hooksett dewatered fish ladder during construction phase
  • Notched weirs facilitate passage of American Eel and American Shad