Hiram Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barker Pond Pigeon Brook
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Baldwin, Maine, Hiram Falls Dam, also known as Hiram, has been a key structure on the Saco River since its completion in 1917.
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Summary
This private dam serves primarily for hydroelectric generation and recreation purposes, standing at a height of 30 feet and a length of 432 feet. With a storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet and a drainage area of 832 square miles, Hiram plays a significant role in water resource management in the region.
Despite its age, Hiram Falls Dam has a low hazard potential and is under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. It boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 314 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 16,475 cubic feet per second. While its condition assessment is not currently available, Hiram is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety standards are upheld.
The risk assessment for Hiram Falls Dam indicates a very high risk level, with a DSAC-assigned rating of 1. Although specific risk management measures are not detailed, the dam's emergency action plan is periodically reviewed and updated to meet regulatory guidelines. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role of structures like Hiram in sustaining hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities underscores the importance of proactive risk management and maintenance practices for resilient water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1917 |
Dam Length |
432 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
Saco River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
255 |
Drainage Area |
832 |
Nid Storage |
1000 |
Outlet Gates |
Flap - 2, Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Tainter (radial) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
Saco River Near Conway
|
315cfs |
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Presumpscot River At Westbrook
|
-999999cfs |
Mousam River Near West Kennebunk
|
44cfs |
Androscoggin River Near Auburn
|
2080cfs |
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.
Hiram
Tripptown Road 28, Hiram