Bradbury Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Bradbury is a private hydroelectric dam located on the Saco River in Biddeford, Maine.


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Summary

Built in 1929, this concrete structure stands at 12 feet tall and spans 205 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 711 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, making it a valuable asset for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bradbury Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its safety and functionality. With its uncontrolled spillway and Tainter radial gate system, Bradbury Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the area.

As a key infrastructure for water resource management, Bradbury Dam contributes to the overall resilience of the region and provides essential services for both energy production and recreation. With its historical significance and strategic location on the Saco River, Bradbury Dam remains a vital component of the water infrastructure in York County, Maine, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the area.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

205

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Saco River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

359

Drainage Area

1703

Nid Storage

711

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

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.