Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Browns Mill East Davee Brook
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Upper Dam, also known as Moosehead Dam, is a concrete gravity dam located in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, along the Piscataquis River.
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Summary
Built in 1908, it serves as a hydroelectric facility with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction and power generation. The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 200 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 200 acre-feet.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Upper Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 122 feet and an outlet gate of slide (sluice gate). While the condition assessment of the dam is not available, it undergoes inspections every 3 years, with the last inspection conducted in September 2018.
With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management and renewable energy production, Upper Dam stands as a notable structure in Maine's landscape. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find interest in its design, operation, and contributions to the region's hydroelectric power generation and flood control efforts.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Piscataquis River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
295 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
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.
Upper Dam