Farnsworth Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper River Worumbo
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Farnsworth, located in Androscoggin, Maine, is a private dam on the Sabattus River with a history dating back to its completion in 1850.
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Summary
This concrete gravity dam stands at 13 feet high and spans 134 feet in length, providing storage of 204 acre-feet of water for a drainage area of 70 square miles. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential but is currently in poor condition, with a condition assessment conducted in 2012.
The state of Maine regulates Farnsworth, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement all conducted by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is important to note its location within a sensitive watershed and the potential impact its failure could have on downstream communities. With its unique design and historical significance, Farnsworth serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the condition of dams like Farnsworth becomes increasingly critical. Understanding the risks associated with aging dams and implementing adequate risk management measures will be essential in ensuring the safety and sustainability of these structures in the face of changing environmental conditions. Farnsworth stands as a testament to the intersection of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship, serving as a focal point for ongoing discussions and actions to safeguard our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
134 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
Sabattus River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
70 |
Nid Storage |
204 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Farnsworth
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