Upper River Reservoir Report
Nearby: Farnsworth Worumbo
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Upper River, located in Androscoggin, Maine, is a vital hydroelectric dam on the Sabattus River with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
Built in 1860, this concrete structure stands at a height of 8 feet and stretches 175 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance, Upper River is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential.
Managed by the local government and regulated by MEMA, Upper River plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a drainage area of 70 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, the dam contributes to the overall health and sustainability of the Sabattus River ecosystem. However, with a last inspection date in 2016 and a poor condition assessment from 2014, there is a pressing need for maintenance and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure the safety and functionality of this important infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Upper River become increasingly important. With a focus on flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation, Upper River serves as a key asset in the region's water resource management strategy. It is essential that proper measures are taken to address the current poor condition of the dam and ensure its continued operation for the benefit of the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1860 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Sabattus River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
58 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
70 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Upper River
Durham Boat Launch