Spragues Mill Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Whitney Irrigation Pond
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Spragues Mill, located in Penobscot, Maine, is a concrete dam completed in 1955 with a primary purpose of providing recreation opportunities.
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Summary
This dam, standing at 14 feet in height and spanning 110 feet in length, impounds Alder Stream and has a storage capacity of 470 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition as assessed in 2012, with a recent inspection in 2019 revealing the need for maintenance and potential structural improvements.
Managed by the Local Government and regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Spragues Mill serves as a crucial structure for fire protection, stock, and small fish ponds in addition to its recreational function. With its location in the New England District and oversight by Congressman Jared F. Golden, this dam plays a key role in water resource management within the region. As climate change impacts water resources, ensuring the safety and functionality of structures like Spragues Mill becomes increasingly important for sustainable water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Spragues Mill in maintaining ecological balance and providing essential services is paramount. With a focus on recreation, fire protection, and supporting local ecosystems, this dam stands as a testament to the intricate relationship between water resources and human activities. By staying informed about its condition, maintenance needs, and regulatory oversight, enthusiasts can actively contribute to the preservation and sustainable management of this vital water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
110 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Alder Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
11.4 |
Nid Storage |
470 |
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.
Spragues Mill