Sandy Pond #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Sandy Pond #3 is a local government-owned water resource located in Freedom, Maine.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at a height of 8.5 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock pond, and small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 1070 acre-feet and a surface area of 460 acres, Sandy Pond #3 is essential for providing water for various uses in the area.

Despite its historical significance, Sandy Pond #3 is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. The dam has a significant hazard potential, making it crucial for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The last inspection was conducted in August 2017, with a frequency of every 6 years, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

As a vital water resource in the region, Sandy Pond #3 plays a crucial role in supporting fire protection, wildlife habitat, and recreational activities. With its location on Sandy Stream and a drainage area of 8 square miles, the dam requires continued attention and investment to maintain its functionality and safety for the community.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

334

Dam Height

8.5

River Or Stream

Sandy Stream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

460

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

1070

Structural Height

8.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

9
       
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.