Pejepscot Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Pejepscot, located in Brunswick, Maine, is a hydroelectric dam on the Androscoggin River with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1896.


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Summary

The dam stands at 48 feet tall and stretches 560 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 3,278 acre-feet and serving as a critical source of energy for the region. With a maximum discharge rate of 110,000 cubic feet per second and a controlled spillway width of 68 feet, Pejepscot plays a significant role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Pejepscot is categorized as having a "Significant" hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. Despite its age, Pejepscot continues to operate efficiently, with five bascule outlet gates and a designated emergency action plan in place. The dam's location within the Sagadahoc County provides a strategic advantage for water resource management, with a drainage area of 3,420 square miles and a surface area of 225 acres contributing to its overall effectiveness in regulating water flow and storage.

In conclusion, Pejepscot stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of hydroelectric infrastructure in Maine, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. With its historical significance, critical role in energy production, and meticulous maintenance protocols, Pejepscot serves as a model for sustainable dam operations and risk management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1896

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

Androscoggin River

Surface Area

225

Drainage Area

3420

Nid Storage

3278

Outlet Gates

Bascule - 5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

48
       
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.