Springs Island Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Springs Island, located in Biddeford, Maine, is a private hydroelectric facility on the Saco River, owned by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this concrete gravity dam stands at 12 feet high and spans 269 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 711 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, with a spillway width of 177 feet to manage maximum discharge of 3405 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Springs Island has a low hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections every three years. While the condition assessment is currently not available, the emergency action plan was last revised in December 2018 to ensure preparedness in case of an unforeseen event. The facility has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, reflecting the need for ongoing risk management measures to maintain its operations and safety standards.

Springs Island offers a glimpse into Maine's water resource infrastructure, combining historic significance with contemporary regulatory oversight. As a key player in the region's energy production and recreational activities, this dam exemplifies the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources and safeguarding against potential risks. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Springs Island an intriguing case study in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

269

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) - 3

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.