Colcord Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Colcord Pond, located in Porter, Maine, is a picturesque water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this concrete dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a hydraulic height of 6 feet, with a storage capacity of 2544 acre-feet. The pond covers an area of 243 acres and has a drainage area of 3.2 square miles, making it a vital habitat for fish and wildlife in the region.

Despite its scenic beauty, Colcord Pond is currently rated as having a significant hazard potential and poor structural condition. The dam, with a length of 180 feet, requires regular inspections every 6 years to ensure its safety and integrity. The State of Maine, through the MEMA regulatory agency, oversees permitting, inspection, and enforcement of dam safety regulations to protect the surrounding communities from potential risks associated with the dam.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the management and maintenance of Colcord Pond become increasingly crucial. With its historical significance and recreational value, efforts to improve its condition and mitigate risks will be essential for preserving this beloved natural asset for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

243

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

3.2

Nid Storage

2544

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.