Chain Of Ponds Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beaver Pond Little Island Pond
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Chain of Ponds is a state-regulated dam located in Franklin, Maine, along the North Branch Dead River.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this concrete dam stands at 16 feet high and spans a length of 433 feet, creating a recreational pond with a storage capacity of 3,006 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and water storage for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Chain of Ponds has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks detailed emergency action plans or risk management measures. The dam's spillway width of 109 feet and its location in a remote area contribute to its low hazard potential, although regular inspections are conducted to ensure its structural integrity and safety for nearby residents and recreation enthusiasts.
With its picturesque setting and primary purpose of recreation, Chain of Ponds offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While the dam's condition remains unrated and emergency preparedness measures are lacking, its low hazard potential and MEMA oversight provide a sense of security for those enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities offered by this historic water resource in Maine.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
433 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
North Branch Dead River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
700 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
3006 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spencer Stream At Mouth
|
104cfs |
Dead River Near Dead River
|
786cfs |
Kennebec River At The Forks
|
660cfs |
Diamond River Near Wentworth Location
|
126cfs |
Austin Stream At Bingham
|
55cfs |
Kennebec River At Bingham
|
2680cfs |
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.
Chain Of Ponds