Red Hill River Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Kanasatka Dam Shannon Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Situated in Sandwich, New Hampshire, the Red Hill River Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity since its completion in 1870.
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Summary
This private-owned Earth dam spans 115 feet in length and reaches a height of 7 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 175 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam serves as a vital resource for water enthusiasts in the area, offering a serene surface area of 39 acres for various recreational activities.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the Red Hill River Dam has been marked with a poor condition assessment, raising concerns about its overall structural integrity. With a hazard potential categorized as low but a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a need for increased monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the preservation of this essential water resource. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of the dam, highlighting the importance of ongoing management and risk mitigation measures.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Red Hill River Dam serves as a critical reminder of the need for proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness. With its location in Carroll County and proximity to the Red Hill River, this dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. As discussions around climate resilience and water management intensify, the Red Hill River Dam stands as a focal point for collaboration and stewardship in safeguarding our precious water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1870 |
Dam Length |
115 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
RED HILL RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
39 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Pemigewasset River At Plymouth
|
461cfs |
Pemigewasset River At Woodstock
|
179cfs |
East Branch Pemigewasset River At Lincoln
|
109cfs |
Baker River Near Rumney
|
72cfs |
Saco River Near Conway
|
315cfs |
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.
Moon #3
Bowman cabin
Moon #1
Bowman #4
Bowman #2
Bowman #1
Red Hill River Dam
Berry Pond boat launch