Caribou Reservoir Report
Nearby: Malabeam Lake Little Madaswaska
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Caribou, located in Aroostook County, Maine, is a private timber crib dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1889, this historic structure stands at a height of 24 feet, with a length of 502 feet, and a storage capacity of 1821 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Aroostook River, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and water supply, in addition to its hydroelectric function.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Caribou has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 451 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 63,000 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment and emergency action plan status are not available, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety compliance.
With its rich history, strategic location, and diverse functions, Caribou serves as a vital water resource and climate asset in the region. As a key component in the local hydroelectric network, the dam contributes to water management, power generation, and environmental sustainability efforts in Aroostook County and beyond. Its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of this significant water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1889 |
Dam Length |
502 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Aroostook River |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
162 |
Drainage Area |
1943 |
Nid Storage |
1821 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Aroostook River At Washburn
|
1520cfs |
Williams Brook At Phair
|
3cfs |
Aroostook River Near Masardis
|
825cfs |
Fish River Near Fort Kent
|
695cfs |
St. John River Below Fish R
|
2780cfs |
Meduxnekeag R Above S Br Medux. R Nr Houlton
|
88cfs |
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.
Caribou
Fort Fairfield Road Caribou