Barker Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Barker Pond, located in Oxford, Maine, is a private water resource primarily utilized for recreation.


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Summary

The dam, built in 1900, is of earth construction and stands at a height of 8 feet, with a hydraulic height of 6 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 575 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 495 acre-feet and a surface area of 206 acres. The pond is fed by Hancock Brook and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency, Barker Pond is state-regulated for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, with a standard inspection frequency of 12 months. While no emergency action plan has been prepared or updated recently, the pond's risk assessment and management measures are not specified in the available data. In terms of political representation, the pond falls within the jurisdiction of Congressman Jared F. Golden.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the Oxford area may find Barker Pond an interesting case study for its recreational significance, historical construction, and regulatory oversight by state agencies. The data on its storage capacity, surface area, and hydraulic features offer valuable insights for those interested in the management and conservation of water resources in the region. With its location along Hancock Brook and its role in local outdoor recreation, Barker Pond represents a blend of natural beauty and human intervention that continues to be relevant to both the community and environmental enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

140

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Hancock Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

206

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

18

Nid Storage

575

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.