Branns Mill Reservoir Report
Nearby: Browns Mill Garland Pond Dike
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Branns Mill, located in Piscataquis, Maine, is a historic timber crib dam that was completed in the year 1900.
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Summary
This dam is situated on the Black Stream and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, fire protection, stock and small fish pond, flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife pond, and recreation. With a dam height of 14 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, Branns Mill has a normal storage capacity of 1550 acre-feet and a surface area of 271 acres.
Managed by the local government, Branns Mill is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement procedures. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam has an emergency action plan (EAP) in place, but details on its preparedness, last revision date, and adherence to guidelines are not available. Despite being non-USACE managed, Branns Mill remains a significant water resource structure in the region, contributing to the environmental, recreational, and hydroelectric needs of the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Branns Mill presents a fascinating blend of history, engineering, and natural resource management. As a relic from the turn of the century, this timber crib dam continues to play a vital role in the local ecosystem, providing valuable services such as flood control, wildlife habitat, and renewable energy generation. With its low hazard potential and diverse range of purposes, Branns Mill stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water infrastructure in sustaining both human communities and the environment.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Black Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
271 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
1974 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Branns Mill