Baker River Site 2 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Baker River Site 2 Dam, also known as Hildreth Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Warren, New Hampshire.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Berry Brook. Standing at a height of 68 feet and spanning 805 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet and a surface area of 39 acres.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Baker River Site 2 Dam is regulated by the NHDES Dam Bureau and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 439 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan is regularly reviewed and updated to meet guidelines and ensure preparedness for any potential risks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Baker River Site 2 Dam represents a key infrastructure asset in the state's flood risk reduction strategy. As part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service's portfolio, this buttress-type dam has been instrumental in managing water levels and protecting downstream areas from flooding. With its location in Grafton County and a storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet, Baker River Site 2 Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and the importance of infrastructure resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

805

Dam Height

68

River Or Stream

BERRY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

2300

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

68
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.