Barker Mill Lower Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barker Mill Upper Parson's Mill
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Barker Mill Lower, located in Auburn, Maine, is a historic hydroelectric dam completed in 1874 on the Little Androscoggin River.
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Summary
This concrete structure stands at 30 feet high and spans 230 feet in length, with a maximum discharge capacity of 9400 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway width of 125 feet. It has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres, serving a drainage area of 353 square miles. While not state-regulated, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for inspections and operations, ensuring its safe and efficient functioning.
With its rich history and ongoing role in renewable energy production, Barker Mill Lower is a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As an integral part of the region's energy infrastructure, this dam continues to contribute to the sustainable development and utilization of water resources in the area, exemplifying the intersection of history, technology, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1874 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
Little Androscoggin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
353 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Barker Mill Lower
Second Street 10, Auburn