Houghton Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Houghton Pond, located in Sagadahoc, Maine, is a private water resource regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).


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Summary

The pond, with a surface area of 12 acres, was completed in 1880 and serves primarily for purposes other than flood control or water supply. The dam at Houghton Pond stands at 18 feet in height and has a low hazard potential, with a fair condition assessment as of July 2013.

Situated along the New Meadows River, Houghton Pond offers a tranquil setting for water and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. With a normal storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 180 acre-feet, the pond provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. While the associated structures and inspection details are limited, the pond remains a picturesque destination for outdoor recreation and environmental education.

As a historic water feature in the region, Houghton Pond contributes to the overall ecosystem health and water management efforts in Maine. Although the dam has not been significantly modified in recent years, the pond continues to be monitored for safety and regulatory compliance. With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, Houghton Pond serves as a valuable resource for the community and a reminder of the importance of responsible water stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR - New Meadows River

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.