Browns Mill Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Dam East Davee Brook
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Browns Mill, located along the Piscataquis River in Maine, is a privately-owned hydroelectric dam with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1856.
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Summary
The dam stands at 24 feet in height and stretches 265 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet for various purposes such as fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and hydroelectric power generation. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Browns Mill serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in the region.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and regulated by the state, Browns Mill is equipped with state-of-the-art inspection, enforcement, and permitting mechanisms to ensure its safe and efficient operation. Although the dam has not been recently inspected, it has an established inspection frequency of 12 months. Despite its age, Browns Mill continues to play a crucial role in water management and energy production, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem and community.
As climate change poses new challenges to water resources and infrastructure, Browns Mill stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices and the importance of dam safety. With its concrete structure and historical significance, Browns Mill remains a cornerstone of water resource management in Piscataquis County, Maine, showcasing the intersection of history, technology, and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1856 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Piscataquis River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
352 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Browns Mill