Clifford Reservoir Report
Nearby: West Grand Lake Grand Lake Stream
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Clifford is a privately owned timber crib dam located in Washington, Maine, along the Clifford Stream.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1971, this hydroelectric facility serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and power generation. With a structural height of 15 feet and a length of 250 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 10,240 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 8,576 acre-feet. Its low hazard potential and unassessed condition make it a crucial water resource in the region.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Clifford is under state regulation for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. Although the dam has not been rated for its condition, its emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unknown. The presence of a spillway with a width of 10 feet ensures safe water discharge during high flow events, further mitigating flood risks in the area. With no associated structures and a minimal environmental impact, Clifford stands as a sustainable energy source and water management infrastructure in the New England District.
As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources and infrastructure, Clifford serves as a reliable asset for flood control and renewable energy production. The dam's location, design, and operational efficiency contribute to its importance in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. With ongoing state oversight and potential for future risk assessment and management measures, Clifford remains a key player in the sustainable development and resilience of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Clifford Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
2140 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
10240 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Grand Lake Stream At Grand Lake Stream
|
113cfs |
Old Stream Near Wesley
|
27cfs |
St. Croix River At Baring
|
1240cfs |
Libby Brook Near Northfield
|
9cfs |
Dennys River At Dennysville
|
1010cfs |
East Br Bear Brook Near Beddington
|
0cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
third lake outlet camp
|
||
third machias camp
|
||
campsite on lake
|
Clifford