Sawyer's Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Sawyer's Pond, also known as Southport, is a picturesque water resource located in Lincoln, Maine.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this earth dam structure was completed in 1935 and primarily serves as a fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. With a dam height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 18 feet, the pond has a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9 acres.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Sawyer's Pond is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in October 2019 revealed concerns about the dam's structural integrity, prompting a frequent inspection schedule of every 6 months. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is reportedly outdated, raising further concerns about the management of potential risks and the safety of the surrounding community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the proper maintenance and restoration of Sawyer's Pond to ensure its continued functionality and safety. By working with local authorities and relevant agencies like MEMA, efforts can be made to address the dam's poor condition, update the emergency action plan, and implement risk management measures to protect the pond and its downstream areas from potential hazards. Let's come together to safeguard this valuable water resource and preserve its beauty for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-Boothbay Harbor

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.