Scopan Reservoir Report
Nearby: Whitney Alder Brook
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Scopan is a privately owned concrete hydroelectric dam located in Ashland, Maine along the Squa Pan Stream.
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Summary
Completed in 1928, this dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. With a height of 35 feet and a length of 590 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 59,300 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5,043 acres. It has a controlled spillway with a width of 24 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 20,900 cubic feet per second.
The dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a high hazard potential due to its location and structural characteristics. Despite a very high risk assessment rating, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are also not readily accessible for Scopan, raising concerns about the preparedness for potential emergencies or disasters. With its historical significance and strategic location in Aroostook County, Maine, Scopan serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Scopan presents a compelling case study for the challenges and opportunities associated with managing hydroelectric infrastructure in a changing climate. The dam's role in flood risk reduction and power generation underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices and emergency preparedness. With ongoing inspection and regulatory oversight by FERC, the future of Scopan hinges on effective risk mitigation strategies and investment in infrastructure resilience to ensure the safety and reliability of this key water resource system.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
Squa Pan Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
5043 |
Drainage Area |
69 |
Nid Storage |
59300 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Aroostook River Near Masardis
|
825cfs |
Aroostook River At Washburn
|
1520cfs |
Williams Brook At Phair
|
3cfs |
Seboeis River Near Shin Pond
|
156cfs |
Meduxnekeag R Above S Br Medux. R Nr Houlton
|
591cfs |
Meduxnekeag River Near Houlton
|
222cfs |
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.
Scopan