Flagstaff Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pierce Pond Dam Gold Brook
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Flagstaff, also known as Long Falls Dam, is a private hydroelectric dam located in The Forks, Maine.
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Summary
Completed in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a length of 1339 feet, providing flood risk reduction, water supply, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. With a storage capacity of 275,482 acre-feet and a surface area of 17,950 acres, Flagstaff plays a crucial role in managing the Dead River's flow and maximizing its potential for various purposes.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Flagstaff's spillway, with a width of 625 feet, ensures controlled release of water to prevent flooding downstream. The dam's very high hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures to guarantee the safety and reliability of this vital infrastructure. Despite not being state-regulated, Flagstaff's significance in water resource management and climate resilience cannot be overstated, making it a key player in supporting the local community and ecosystem in Somerset County, Maine.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Flagstaff represents a blend of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its role in balancing water supply, flood control, and renewable energy generation underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and climate adaptation efforts. With its rich history and strategic location, Flagstaff serves as a beacon of sustainable infrastructure that exemplifies the synergy between human needs and ecological integrity, making it a compelling case study for advancing water management practices in a changing climate scenario.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
1339 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
Dead River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17950 |
Drainage Area |
516 |
Nid Storage |
275482 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Tainter (radial) - 5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dead River Near Dead River
|
786cfs |
Spencer Stream At Mouth
|
104cfs |
Kennebec River At The Forks
|
660cfs |
Austin Stream At Bingham
|
55cfs |
Kennebec River At Bingham
|
2680cfs |
Carrabassett River Near North Anson
|
304cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Safford Notch Campsite
|
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Avery Lean-to
|
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Harrison’s Pierce Pond Camp
|
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Horns Pond Lean-tos
|
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Cranberry Stream Campsite
|
Flagstaff