Pioneer Reservoir Report
Nearby: Waverly Avenue Burnham
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Pioneer is a historic hydroelectric dam located on the West Branch Sebasticook River in Pittsfield, Maine.
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Summary
Built in 1890, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 570 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. It serves as a vital source of renewable energy and contributes to the local water resource management efforts in Somerset County.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Pioneer has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition, with regular inspections conducted every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The spillway, with a width of 160 feet, helps regulate water flow and prevent flooding downstream, showcasing the dam's commitment to environmental stewardship and climate resilience.
With its rich history and importance in the local community, Pioneer represents a blend of traditional hydroelectric power generation and modern water resource management practices. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the role of dams like Pioneer in ensuring sustainable energy production and water conservation becomes increasingly significant for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
West Branch Sebasticook River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
320 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Pioneer