Nesowadnehunk Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Nesowadnehunk, a privately owned dam located in Piscataquis, Maine, serves as a vital hydroelectric resource in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1930, this concrete dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 11,800 acre-feet. It not only helps in flood risk reduction but also provides opportunities for recreation in the area. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Nesowadnehunk is a key infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Nesowadnehunk is regulated and inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's primary purpose as a hydroelectric facility highlights its importance in generating renewable energy for the local community. The dam's location on the Nesowadnehunk River adds to its significance in the watershed, with a drainage area of 14 square miles and a surface area of 1427 acres.

Despite its age, Nesowadnehunk continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the area. With a focus on sustainability and safety, the dam remains a key asset for both flood control and renewable energy generation. Its history, design, and purpose make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

359

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Nesowadnehunk

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1427

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

14

Nid Storage

11800

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.