Swans Falls, located in Fryeburg, Maine, is a captivating hydroelectric dam on the Saco River that was completed in 1923.
Wind
Humidity
With a dam height of 10 feet and a length of 630 feet, Swans Falls has a normal storage capacity of 450 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 535 acre-feet. This concrete dam also serves recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 150 acres for outdoor activities.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Swans Falls has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 475 feet and two slide gates for water release. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the dam's risk management measures are in place to ensure safety and efficient operations. Its strategic location in the New England District adds to its importance as a key hydroelectric facility in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Swans Falls presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of renewable energy generation and environmental conservation. Its historical significance and modern operational standards make it an intriguing case study for sustainable water resource management. With its serene surroundings and crucial role in power generation, Swans Falls stands as a symbol of responsible hydroelectric infrastructure in the heart of Maine's natural landscape.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
630 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Saco River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
150 |
Drainage Area |
446 |
Nid Storage |
535 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Saco River Near Conway
|
315cfs |
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Wild River At Gilead
|
48cfs |
Little Androscoggin River Near South Paris
|
57cfs |
Androscoggin River Near Gorham
|
2640cfs |