Burnham Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pioneer Waverly Avenue
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Burnham, also known as Pittsfield, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Burnham, Maine, along the Sebasticook River.
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Summary
Built in 1929, this concrete dam stands 32 feet tall and spans 615 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1904 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 12200 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a three-year inspection frequency.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Burnham plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power in the region, utilizing a variety of dam types including buttress, concrete, and earth structures. The dam's uncontrolled spillway has a width of 210 feet, ensuring efficient water flow during high discharge events. With its rock foundations and multi-arch core types, Burnham serves as a testament to sustainable energy production and water resource management in Somerset County.
As a key player in Maine's water infrastructure, Burnham continues to provide reliable energy production while maintaining a focus on safety and environmental impact. With a diverse range of purposes including hydroelectric power generation, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing water resource utilization with conservation efforts. Its location along the Sebasticook River showcases the intersection of human innovation and environmental stewardship in the realm of climate and water resource management.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
615 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
Sebasticook River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
304 |
Drainage Area |
570 |
Nid Storage |
1904 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Burnham