Fitch's Mill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Fitch's Mill Pond in Cumberland, Maine, is a historic hydroelectric dam completed in 1790 on the Northwest River.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, this concrete dam stands at 18 feet high and 251 feet long, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is classified as low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition, with its last inspection dating back to May 2001.

Owned privately and regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Fitch's Mill Pond serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock and small fish pond, fish and wildlife habitat, flood risk reduction, and of course, hydroelectric power generation. The pond covers an area of 8 acres and has a spillway width of 36 feet. While the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment details are not available, the structure remains a key component of the local water resource infrastructure and contributes to the surrounding ecosystem's health.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fitch's Mill Pond offers a fascinating glimpse into early American engineering and its continued impact on the local landscape. As one of the oldest hydroelectric dams in the region, its historical significance is matched by its modern-day importance in providing renewable energy and supporting biodiversity. With its low hazard potential and regular state inspections, Fitch's Mill Pond stands as a reminder of our ability to harness nature's power while prioritizing safety and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1790

Dam Length

251

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Northwest River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

60

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.