Cascade Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Cascade Pond, located in Hallowell, Maine, is a picturesque masonry dam structure built in 1871 on Vaughan Brook.


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Summary

This privately owned fish and wildlife pond spans 5 acres with a dam height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 26 feet, providing a serene habitat for various aquatic species. The pond's primary purpose is to support fish and wildlife activities, as well as offering recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Cascade Pond is regulated and permitted by the state, ensuring its safety and environmental sustainability. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the pond's dam is regularly inspected every 12 months to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, Cascade Pond continues to serve as a vital resource for the local ecosystem, offering a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts and climate advocates alike to appreciate and protect.

As an essential part of the ecosystem in Kennebec County, Maine, Cascade Pond plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting recreational activities in the region. With its historical significance and commitment to fish and wildlife conservation, this charming pond serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving water resources in the face of climate change. By upholding state regulations and conducting regular inspections, Cascade Pond stands as a model for sustainable water management practices that benefit both the environment and the community.

Year Completed

1871

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Vaughan Brook

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.