Souhegan Site 8 Cemetery Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Souhegan Site 8 Cemetery Dike, also known as the James A G Putnam Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Lyndeborough, New Hampshire.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 375 feet in length, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the Souhegan River. With a normal storage capacity of 253 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4.44 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, the Souhegan Site 8 Cemetery Dike has been assessed as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent one taking place in April 2020, ensuring that the structure remains structurally sound and able to fulfill its flood risk reduction purpose effectively. Despite being classified as having a moderate risk level, the dam is well-maintained and meets state regulatory standards, providing a sense of security to the community and stakeholders who rely on its protection.
Overall, the Souhegan Site 8 Cemetery Dike is a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, demonstrating the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location along the Souhegan River and its significant role in flood risk reduction, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and ensure the sustainable use of water resources in New Hampshire.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR SOUHEGAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48 |
Drainage Area |
4.44 |
Nid Storage |
307 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Souhegan Site 8 Cemetery Dike
Zephyr Lake boat launch