Baker River Site 8 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Baker River Site 8 Dam, also known as Site 8 Baker, is a state-owned structure in New Hampshire that serves as a crucial element in flood risk reduction efforts.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 63 feet and stretches for 1462 feet along the South Branch Baker River. With a storage capacity of 4750 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 143 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment as of May 2018 was deemed satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in October 2020. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 rating. While no emergency action plan information is available, the dam is regulated, permitted, and inspected by the NHDES Dam Bureau, ensuring that it meets all necessary safety and compliance standards. Overall, the Baker River Site 8 Dam is an essential component in safeguarding the local community and environment from the impacts of flooding and water resource management.
Located in Dorchester, Grafton County, New Hampshire, this dam is a critical infrastructure that contributes to the overall water management system in the region. Its flood risk reduction purpose, combined with its satisfactory condition and regular inspections, highlights the importance of the Baker River Site 8 Dam in ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding area. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, structures like this dam play a vital role in mitigating potential risks and protecting communities from the adverse effects of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
1462 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BRANCH BAKER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30.4 |
Drainage Area |
15.58 |
Nid Storage |
4750 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
63 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Baker River Near Rumney
|
70cfs |
Pemigewasset River At Plymouth
|
461cfs |
Smith River Near Bristol
|
35cfs |
Ompompanoosuc River At Union Village
|
16cfs |
Pemigewasset River At Woodstock
|
164cfs |
Connecticut River At West Lebanon
|
1410cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Smarts Mountain Campsite
|
||
Cardigan Campsites
|
||
Hexacuba Shelter
|
||
Clark Brook Campsite
|
||
Trapper John Shelter
|
||
Three Ponds Shelter
|
Baker River Site 8 Dam
Spectacle Pond boat launch