Shawmut Reservoir Report
Nearby: Benton Falls Hydro-Kennebec
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Shawmut, a hydroelectric dam located in Fairfield, Maine, along the Kennebec River, has been a key player in the region's energy landscape since its completion in 1912.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, Shawmut also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy. This concrete gravity dam stands at 26 feet high and stretches 1480 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 5000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 12540 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Shawmut has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, its last inspection in 2019 deemed it to be in satisfactory condition. Emergency action plans are in place, with contact information updated regularly to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding area in the event of an emergency. Overall, Shawmut stands as a reliable source of clean energy and a recreational destination, contributing to the sustainable development of the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Shawmut lies not only in its role as a renewable energy generator but also in its impact on the local ecosystem and water management practices. With a spillway width of 26 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, Shawmut is designed to regulate water flow and prevent flooding downstream. Its location on the Kennebec River adds to the river system's overall management, providing benefits for both wildlife and human inhabitants. As climate change continues to affect water resources, dams like Shawmut play a crucial role in adapting to changing conditions and ensuring water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
1480 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
Kennebec River |
Surface Area |
1310 |
Drainage Area |
4200 |
Nid Storage |
5000 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Tainter (radial) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kennebec River At North Sidney
|
2500cfs |
Sandy River Near Mercer
|
326cfs |
Carrabassett River Near North Anson
|
304cfs |
Sheepscot River At North Whitefield
|
85cfs |
Cobbosseecontee Stream At Gardiner
|
182cfs |
Kennebec River At Bingham
|
2680cfs |
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.
Shawmut
Canaan Road 99, Fairfield