Square Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shapleigh Pond Horn Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Square Pond, located in Shapleigh, Maine, is a picturesque water body situated along the Mousam River, under the jurisdiction of the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).
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Summary
This local government-owned reservoir, completed in 1900, serves primarily for flood risk reduction purposes, with a dam height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 2184 acre-feet. The pond covers an area of 905 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 1820 acre-feet, making it a vital resource for the surrounding area.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Square Pond offers a tranquil setting for recreational activities such as fishing and boating. Despite its age, the dam structure remains intact, with periodic inspections conducted every 12 years to ensure its safety and functionality. While the pond's spillway type and width are not specified, its role in fire protection, stock maintenance, and flood control highlights its importance as a multi-functional water resource in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the diverse ecosystem of Square Pond, its historical significance and ongoing management by MEMA provide a fascinating lens into the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental conservation. With its gravity and stone dam types contributing to its structural integrity, Square Pond stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices and the resilience of natural landscapes in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
Mousam |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
905 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
4.4 |
Nid Storage |
2184 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mousam River Near West Kennebunk
|
44cfs |
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
Cocheco River Near Rochester
|
24cfs |
Isinglass R At Rochester Neck Rd
|
26cfs |
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Oyster River Near Durham
|
2cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Square Pond
West Shore Road 411, Acton