Paper Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Paper Mill Dam, located in Bennington, New Hampshire, is a privately owned concrete dam built in 1922 primarily for hydroelectric purposes on the Contoocook River.


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Summary

With a height of 13 feet and a length of 280 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 191 square miles. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures.

The dam is regulated by the New Hampshire Dam Bureau and undergoes state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, the last inspection in May 2014 revealed no immediate concerns. With a spillway type listed as uncontrolled, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unspecified. The dam's association with the New England District of the US Army Corps of Engineers is noted as non-existent, suggesting a reliance on state oversight for its operation and maintenance.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and regulatory aspects of dam infrastructure will find Paper Mill Dam a fascinating case study. Its historical significance, hydroelectric purpose, and location on the Contoocook River make it a valuable component of New Hampshire's water resource infrastructure. As the dam continues to age, maintaining its safety and integrity will be crucial for both the surrounding community and the environment it serves.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

CONTOOCOOK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

191

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.