Upper West Bay Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Upper West Bay Pond in Hancock, Maine, is a captivating Fish and Wildlife Pond with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1978.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 180 feet in length, providing a serene habitat for various wildlife species. With a storage capacity of 1470 acre-feet and a surface area of 349 acres, the pond serves as a recreational destination for nature enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Upper West Bay Pond boasts a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated." Despite the lack of a formal emergency action plan, the pond's inspection frequency of 12 months ensures its structural integrity and safety for visitors. With its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings, Upper West Bay Pond continues to be a haven for wildlife conservation efforts and outdoor recreation activities in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, Upper West Bay Pond stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and protecting our natural habitats. With its diverse array of wildlife and recreational opportunities, this serene pond serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and environmental conservation. As enthusiasts and advocates for water resources and climate resilience, Upper West Bay Pond offers a unique opportunity to appreciate and steward the beauty of nature in a changing world.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

West Bay Pond

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

349

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

1470

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.