Tolman Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grassy Pond Fish Pond
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Tolman is a private dam located in Rockport, Maine, along the Oyster River.
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Summary
Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this concrete dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and a surface area of 38 acres, Tolman is a significant water resource in the area.
The dam is regulated by MEMA and undergoes inspections every 6 years, with its last assessment conducted in July 2019. Classified as having a significant hazard potential, Tolman's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated". Emergency action plans are in place, with the last revision made in March 2021, to ensure the safety and management of the dam in case of any unforeseen events.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tolman provides an interesting case study of a privately owned dam that plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock management, and recreational activities. Its location in Knox County, Maine, and its association with the Oyster River make it a key player in the local ecosystem, highlighting the importance of proper regulation and maintenance of such water structures in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Oyster River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
38 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Tolman
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