Baker River Site 5 Dam, also known as Swains Brook Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Wentworth, New Hampshire.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1967 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and spans 807 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 950 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 39 acre-feet.
Despite its critical role in flood protection, Baker River Site 5 Dam is currently rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition. Inspected in June 2020, the dam's condition assessment in May 2018 revealed the need for improvements. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3), the dam lacks emergency action preparedness and updated inundation maps, raising concerns about its ability to effectively manage potential hazards.
As a water resource and climate enthusiast, the situation at Baker River Site 5 Dam highlights the importance of investing in dam safety and maintenance to protect communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. Addressing the poor condition and high hazard potential of this vital flood risk reduction structure is essential to ensure its resilience in the face of increasing climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
807 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
SWAIN BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.3 |
Drainage Area |
4.25 |
Nid Storage |
950 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
53 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ore Hill Tentsite
|
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Three Ponds Shelter
|
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Hexacuba Shelter
|
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Smarts Mountain Campsite
|
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Jeffers Brook Shelter
|
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Underhill Campsite
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