Hackett Mills Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Hackett Mills, located in Minot, Maine, is a privately owned hydroelectric facility on the Little Androscoggin River.


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Summary

Built in 1986, this timber crib dam stands at 8 feet tall and stretches 220 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 480 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 474 cubic feet per second. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 220 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential.

Operated under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Hackett Mills plays a vital role in generating renewable energy for the region. Despite its age, the facility is regularly inspected and maintains a very high risk assessment rating of 1. While the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam is equipped with a slide gate for water release and has an emergency action plan in place to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of a dam failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Hackett Mills an intriguing example of sustainable energy production and infrastructure management. With its significant storage capacity and controlled spillway, the dam serves as a key player in the local water management system. As the facility continues to operate under federal regulations and regular inspections, it stands as a testament to the importance of responsible hydroelectric development in mitigating climate change and meeting energy needs in a environmentally conscious manner.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Little Androscoggin River

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

60

Drainage Area

313

Nid Storage

480

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.