Swans Falls
Key Takeaway
Swans Falls is classified as low hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 18.4% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 630 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 535 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 150 acres |
| Drainage Area | 446 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 50,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | ME00038 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Saco River Hydro, LLC
Private
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Significant Hazard 7 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Swans Falls?
Swans Falls is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Swans Falls?
Swans Falls is owned by Saco River Hydro, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swans Falls built?
Swans Falls was completed in 1923, making it 103 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Swans Falls?
Swans Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Swans Falls?
Swans Falls has a dam height of 10 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Swans Falls last inspected?
Swans Falls was last inspected on June 11, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.