Baker River Site 5 Dike Reservoir Report

Reservoir Report

New Hampshire

Nearby: Baker River Site 5 Dam Baker River Site 11 Dam

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Baker River Site 5 Dike, located in Wentworth, New Hampshire, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1969 for flood risk reduction on Swain Brook.

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Summary

Standing at a height of 20 feet and spanning 600 feet in length, this structure boasts a normal storage capacity of 39 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 950 acre-feet, serving as a crucial defense against potential flooding in the region. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is deemed to be in good standing to fulfill its primary purpose effectively.

The dam, overseen by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau, is subject to regular state inspections, with the last assessment conducted in June 2020. While the risk assessment categorizes the structure as having a moderate risk level, appropriate risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential threats. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's design and construction adhere to state regulations, ensuring its resilience against extreme weather events and safeguarding the surrounding community from flood risks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Baker River Site 5 Dike presents a fascinating case study in effective flood risk reduction infrastructure. With its strategic location, sound design, and diligent state oversight, this earth dam on Swain Brook serves as a testament to the importance of proactive water management in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of climate change. As efforts continue to enhance resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges, structures like Baker River Site 5 Dike play a vital role in promoting sustainable water resource management practices for a more secure future.

Year Completed	1969
Dam Length	600
Dam Height	20
River Or Stream	SWAIN BROOK
Primary Dam Type	Earth
Surface Area	7
Drainage Area	4.25
Nid Storage	950
Hazard Potential	Low
Foundations	Unlisted/Unknown
Nid Height	20

Explore Interactive Map

BAKER RIVER SITE 5 DIKE

Reservoir Report • Water Levels • Weather Forecast

December 15, 2025

Year_Completed	1969
Dam_Length	600
Dam_Height	20
River_Or_Stream	SWAIN BROOK
Primary_Dam_Type	Earth
Surface_Area	7
Drainage_Area	4.25
Nid_Storage	950
Hazard_Potential	Low
Foundations	Unlisted/Unknown
Nid_Height	20

Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Nearby Streamflow Levels

Baker River Near Rumney 70.4cfs	70cfs
Pemigewasset River At Woodstock 164.0cfs	164cfs
Pemigewasset River At Plymouth 461.0cfs	461cfs
East Branch Pemigewasset River At Lincoln 107.0cfs	107cfs
Ompompanoosuc River At Union Village 16.1cfs	16cfs
Connecticut River At Wells River 1300.0cfs	1300cfs

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.