Carlton Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Carlton Pond Dam in Maine, owned by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, serves as a vital structure for managing water resources in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, the dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 140 feet in length, with a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife pond activities. It also plays a role in flood risk reduction and recreation, highlighting its multi-functional importance in the region.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2014, Carlton Pond Dam remains a crucial asset for the community. The dam has a controlled spillway type with a width of 80 feet, allowing for effective management of water discharge during peak periods. Despite its age, the dam has undergone modifications in 1972 and 1997 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities, ensuring its continued reliability for water resource and climate enthusiasts who visit the area.

Located in Waldo, Maine, Carlton Pond Dam is a key feature along Carlton Stream, offering not only water management benefits but also recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. As a federally owned and regulated structure, it reflects the commitment of the US Fish and Wildlife Service to sustainable water resource management and environmental stewardship. Given its very high risk assessment rating, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are essential to safeguard the dam's integrity and ensure its long-term effectiveness in protecting the surrounding ecosystem and communities.

Years Modified

1972 - Other, 1997 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

140

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Carlton Stream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

415

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

22.4

Nid Storage

3659

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.