Jordan Mill Privilege Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Jordan Mill Privilege is a historic structure located in Cumberland, Maine, along the Royal River.


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Summary

Built in 1770, this concrete dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and serving as a small fish pond. With a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 25 acres and drains a 13-square mile watershed area. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition and has a low hazard potential.

Managed by a private owner, Jordan Mill Privilege is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam's primary purpose of providing fire protection and supporting recreational activities highlights its importance to the local community. With a spillway width of 12 feet and a history dating back over two centuries, the Jordan Mill Privilege is a key feature in the region's water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Jordan Mill Privilege offers a glimpse into the historical significance of water infrastructure in Maine. Its unique design and functionality make it an important asset for maintaining water levels, protecting against fires, and supporting local wildlife. With its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam continues to play a vital role in the region's water management strategies. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, structures like Jordan Mill Privilege serve as crucial components in ensuring water security and resilience for communities in Maine.

Year Completed

1770

Dam Length

22

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Royal River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.