Hicks Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Located in Oxford, Maine, Hicks Pond is a local government-owned reservoir with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1944, this concrete dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 200 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 538 acre-feet. The pond covers a surface area of 93 acres and is fed by the Little Androscoggin River, making it an essential resource for the region.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Hicks Pond plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock management, and recreational activities in the area. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the Maine Emergency Management Agency. Despite its modest size, Hicks Pond serves as a vital water resource for the local community and contributes to the overall climate resilience of the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and management of dams like Hicks Pond are becoming increasingly important. With proper oversight and adherence to regulatory standards, Hicks Pond can continue to provide clean energy, water storage, and recreational opportunities for years to come, showcasing the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in a changing world.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Little Androscoggin

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

93

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

538

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.