Howard Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Howard Pond, located in Oxford, Maine, is a private water resource regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed of concrete, stands at a height of 7 feet and was completed in the year 1800. With a storage capacity of 952 acre-feet and a surface area of 134 acres, Howard Pond serves as a vital source of water for the surrounding area.

Despite its historical significance, Howard Pond poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of June 2018. The dam's inspection frequency is every 6 years, indicating a need for regular monitoring and maintenance. Although it lacks specific risk management measures and emergency action plans, Howard Pond remains an essential water resource in the region.

With its rich history and critical role in water supply, Howard Pond represents a unique intersection of water resource management and historical preservation. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Howard Pond's story intriguing, as its condition assessment and hazard potential highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this cherished water source.

Year Completed

1800

Dam Length

95

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Howard Pond

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

134

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

3.7

Nid Storage

952

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

7
       
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.